Crime that does not involve force.
WHAT COMMON METHODS ARE
Impersonation of banks, officials or companies Requests to confirm details or codes Claims that an account is compromised Offers requiring an advance payment Fake products and non-existent goods Romance and long-relationship deception Investment offers with guaranteed returns
WHAT THEY SHARE
Urgency Authority An unusual payment method Pressure not to consult anyone
WHY URGENCY IS THE COMMON THREAD
It prevents verification.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT ANY UNEXPECTED CONTACT
Do not act on it.
WHAT TO DO INSTEAD
Contact the organisation independently, using a number you already hold.
WHY INDEPENDENTLY
The contact details provided are part of the deception.
WHAT TO NEVER PROVIDE
Codes sent to you Passwords Card details in response to contact Remote access to your device
WHY CODES SPECIFICALLY
No legitimate organisation asks for them.
WHAT TO BE CAUTIOUS OF
Anything requiring payment to receive money Guaranteed returns Pressure to decide immediately Requests to keep something confidential
WHY CONFIDENTIALITY REQUESTS
They exist to prevent you consulting someone who would recognise it.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE ANY SIGNIFICANT PAYMENT
Verify the recipient independently.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT CHANGED BANK DETAILS
Verify by telephone, to a number you already hold.
WHY
It is the commonest payment fraud there is.
WHAT TO DO IF DECEIVED
Report it promptly, and tell your bank immediately.
WHAT TO AVOID
Shame preventing you from reporting.
