Hackers are targeting Microsoft users

Microsoft account holders are receiving dozens of emails containing 'single-use codes', triggered by login attempts to their accounts.

This is most likely the result of a brute force attack, where hackers attempt to access accounts by trying multiple passwords. Find out what to do if you receive single-use codes you didn't request, and how to secure your accounts.

Secure your accounts now

 

Source: Which? (02 Apr 2025)

How to spot a WhatsApp scam

WhatsApp allows users to message friends and family all over the world for free, but these features are sometimes exploited by scammers. In fact, fraud on the app accounted for 21% of all reported scams in the UK in 2024 according to recent data analysed by Revolut.

If you haven't done so already, add an extra layer of security to your WhatsApp by setting up two-step verification. Check out our step-by-step instructions on how to do so, and take a look at the top six most common scams on the app.

What to watch out for

 

Source: Which? (01 Apr 2025)

Amazon 'iPhone in your basket' scam warning

Amazon customers continue to be targeted by phone scammers who claim that iPhones or other expensive items have been added to their shopping baskets.

Reports of this scam continue to come through on our scam sharer tool – take a look at the latest tactics being used and find out how you can secure a hacked Amazon account.

See how this scam works

 

Source: Which? (03 Apr 2025)

URGENT APPEAL: Stolen Brown BMW 435 in Welling - AE15 HLN

Vehicle Stolen: Brown BMW 435, 2015 model Registration Plate: AE15 HLN

 

Date & Time of Theft: 31st March 2025, approximately 1:05 AM

Location: Outside residential pavement, lower end of Montrose Avenue, Welling.

We are appealing for urgent assistance following the theft of a brown BMW 435 (registration AE15 HLN) from Montrose Avenue, Welling in the early hours of this morning. The owner reports that the steering lock was unfortunately not engaged at the time. It is believed that the suspects may have used a scanner to gain access to the vehicle.

We are urgently requesting all residents in the Montrose Avenue area, and surrounding streets, to:

• Check any CCTV footage or other surveillance devices you may have installed. Even seemingly insignificant footage could prove crucial in identifying the suspects or the vehicle's movements.
• Be vigilant and report any suspicious activity witnessed around the time of the theft.

The owner has reported the theft to the police (CAD ref 2306/31Mar25). If you have any information, or have seen or heard anything suspicious, please contact:

• East Wickham Police on 101
• Email: eastwickham.snt@met.police.uk
• Phone: 020 8721 2025
• Crimestoppers (anonymously): 0800 555 1111

Your assistance could be vital in recovering this stolen vehicle and apprehending those responsible. Please share this appeal with your neighbours and within your local community groups.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Four sneaky text scams

For some mobile users, barely a day goes by without receiving a dodgy text. These scams, known as 'smishing', are popular tools for fraudsters and some are sneakier than others.

We've rounded up four particularly nasty examples to watch out for, including a fake emergency text and a convincing delivery text scam.

Be prepared for these scams

Source: Which? (26 Mar 2025)

Rogue traders conned a victim out of £6,000

After contacting what appeared to be a well-reviewed local roofing company, Maureen was scammed out of £6,250 by rogue traders.

Initially Santander refused to reimburse her, but after our scams expert stepped in and investigated, the bank agreed to pay up. Find out what you need to do to recover your money if something like this happens to you.

How to recover your money after a scam

Source: Which? (27 Mar 2025)

Trending job scams to watch out for

Scammers are preying on job seekers again with appealing, but too-good-to-be-true, offers.

The latest examples we've seen have been fraudsters impersonating genuine recruitment firms to make their scams even more convincing. See what these scams look like so you can avoid falling victim.

How to spot a job scam

Source: Which? (25 Mar 2025)