Avoiding scams

Scammers try to trick you into giving away money or personal details. Anyone can be targeted, and the impact can be serious. You can protect yourself by slowing down, asking questions and checking if something feels right before you act.

If an offer is unexpected, rushed or seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Common warning signs

Before you hand over money or information, ask yourself:

• did I expect this offer or contact?
• am I being rushed to act quickly?
• am I being asked to keep it secret?
• do I need to send money, pay a fee or buy something to get a prize?
• am I being asked for bank details, passwords or a PIN?
• is the contact from overseas or using a PO box?
• would I be able to afford the loss if this is a scam?

Take a moment to stop and think. Scammers rely on panic and pressure.

Shopping safely online

You can reduce your risk when shopping online by:

• checking the website address starts with https and shows a padlock icon
• paying by credit card, debit card or PayPal for better protection
• being cautious if a seller asks for a bank transfer
• reading the website carefully for spelling mistakes or unusual terms
• questioning big discounts on popular brands - very low prices are a red flag

If a deal looks unrealistic, trust your instincts and walk away.

Stay informed and report scams

We run a scams alert network to share local warnings and advice. You can also help protect others by reporting scams.

• Email us: consumer.enquiries@southlanarkshire.gov.uk to join alerts or report a scam

Taking a few simple steps can help keep you and your money safe.