Cyber fraud and scams

Cyber fraud and scams are a growing problem, with criminals using increasingly clever tricks to steal personal and financial information. Scammers use pressure tactics, false promises, and even threats to trick people into handing over money or sensitive details. Every year, victims lose billions to fraudsters, and many scams go unreported, making the real number even higher.

Common types of scams and fraud

1. Phishing scams – Fake emails or messages that appear to be from trusted organisations, tricking people into sharing personal data.
2. Online shopping scams – Fake websites or sellers that take payment for goods or services that don’t exist.
3. Identity theft – Criminals steal personal information to open accounts, take out loans, or commit fraud in someone else’s name.
4. Ransomware attacks – Malicious software that locks files, with criminals demanding payment to restore access.
5. Investment scams – Fraudsters promise high returns on fake investments, only to steal the money.
6. Romance scams – Scammers build fake online relationships to manipulate victims into sending money or sharing personal details.
7. Vishing (phone scams) – Callers pretend to be from a bank, the police, or other official organisations to persuade victims to transfer money.
8. Courier scams – Fraudsters claim there has been a banking fraud and arrange to collect a bank card from the victim’s home.
9. Subscription traps – People sign up for a “free” trial, only to find themselves locked into expensive, ongoing payments.
10. Computer software scams – Cold callers claim there is a problem with your computer and try to gain remote access to steal information.
11. Online shopping scams – Includes fake auction sites, fraudulent payment services, and offers for non-existent products.
12. Money transfer scams – Fraudsters ask victims to help move money from abroad, often promising a share of the funds, but instead stealing from them.

How to stay safe online

• Think before you act – Scammers often create a sense of urgency. Take your time to check the facts before responding.
• Verify sources – Before clicking on links or providing personal information, make sure the source is genuine.
• Use strong passwords – Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on important accounts to add extra security.
• Keep your software updated – This helps protect your devices from cyber threats.
• Be cautious with emails, texts, and calls – If something seems suspicious, double-check before responding.
• Monitor your financial statements – Look out for any unusual transactions and report them immediately.
• Be wary of unexpected contact – Especially if someone asks for money or personal details.
• If it seems too good to be true, it probably is – Avoid offers that sound unrealistic or promise easy money.

How to report scams and suspected scams

If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam, report it as soon as possible. You can contact:

• Police Scotland on 101
• Advice Direct Scotland at 0808 164 6000
• The Money and Pensions Service for advice on financial scams
• The Pensions Regulator website for pension-related fraud
• The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) at www.fca.org.uk to check if an investment firm is legitimate
• Get Safe Online at www.getsafeonline.org for general internet safety tips

To reduce unwanted phone, postal, and doorstep calls, register with:

• Telephone Preference Service at www.tpsonline.org.uk or call 0845 070 0707
• Mailing Preference Service at www.mpsonline.org.uk or call 0845 703 4599
• Use phone blocking services like TrueCall at www.truecall.co.uk or Call Blocker at www.cprcallblocker.com

For more information and support, visit Cyber Fraud Hub. Staying informed is the best way to protect yourself and your community from scams.