Scams range from the obvious to complex and hard to spot. These include:

• Fake calls and messages.

Scammers often call or text claiming to be from your bank or another company or government agency. They may have a believable story to convince people to give their information – but it’s important to stop and consider all requests before actioning them.

• Investment scams.

Scammers try to convince people to pay large amounts to “invest” with the promise of higher returns than what funds or banks can

provide. They’ll often pitch these fake investment opportunities as being low risk as well.

• Remote access scams.

Remote access scams are used to gain access to someone’s computer or device, to collect personal information and access their bank accounts.

• Dating and romance scams.

These involve a scammer claiming to be looking for love and/or a relationship. Scammers will steal images off social media and dating apps to build a believable and likeable character.

How to spot a scam?

WARNING SIGNS INCLUDE:

• An urgent request for money that puts pressure on you.
• Emails or text messages prompting you to click on links or attachments.
• A situation where you have to make a payment to “release” funds.
• Contact that is unexpected or unsolicited.
• A request to download software onto your computer or device.
• Requests for money from a friend or partner that you have not met in person.
• Offers that appear exceptionally good under the circumstances.
• The account details for a bill, invoice or wages have changed.
• Unusual payment methods such as cryptocurrency or prepaid cards.
• A request to receive and/or transfer money on behalf of someone else.
• Unusual payment methods such as cryptocurrency or prepaid cards.
• A request to receive and/or transfer money on behalf of someone else.

How to protect yourself?

• Beware of requests for your personal details or money.
• If you’re unsure if a phone call is genuine, hang up. Call the company on their published number to confirm (but don’t request a call back).
• Never click on links in unsolicited emails or text messages.
• Report and delete suspicious messages or emails.
• Keep passwords and security codes secure.
• Never give a stranger remote access to your device.