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Scam Awareness Week

Published on 27 October 2025 09:40 AM

Being scammed can be very upsetting, but it can happen to anyone. If you’ve been scammed, you’re not alone and there’s support available. 

What is a scam? 

A scam is a way of cheating someone out of their money or valuable items. It is a crime. Scammers use tactics to manipulate someone into giving them money or personal information. 

Types of Scams 

Doorstep Scams 

Scammers knocking on your door pretending to be people they are not, trying to get money from you. These scammers may pretend to be from a well-known charity or organisation. 

Mail Scams 

Post containing false claims for offers trying to steal your money. These may be addressed to you directly 

Phone Scams 

Scammers contacting you by telephone trying to obtain your personal information or manipulating you into buying products. Remember you can always hang up if someone is making you feel uncomfortable. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Email and online scams 

Emails or fake websites pretending to be legitimate or trying to tempt you with fraudulent offers. These often look like a trusted organisation’s real website or email.  

Relationship scams 

Scammers trying to earn your trust through a pretend relationship to get money from you. Be cautious of someone asking for personal information, like your full name, address, date of birth or bank details. 

Identity Theft 

Scammers trying to get hold of your personal details to access your savings or run up debts in your name. 

Investment and Pension Scams 

Scammers trying to steal your pension, perhaps by offering seemingly attractive but fraudulent investment opportunities. They may call several times and could even have details of previous investments you’ve made. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to deal with scams 

  • Check their contact details. Visit www.gov.uk/get-information-about-a-company to find out a company’s details, including its registered address. 
  • Check if tradespeople are registered and regulated. 
  • Check reviews and recommendations 
  • If you’ve been scammed, it’s important to report it right away. If you’ve had money stolen: Contact your bank straight away. They can cancel any cards and freeze your accounts. 

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