Fake antivirus scam emails return

Which? have seen a resurgence in fake AVG and McAfee antivirus emails trying to trick people into 'renewing' antivirus software. The fake emails ask you to review an agreement before ringing a number to authorise payment, and sure enough, a scammer is at the end of the line to steal your details.

Here's what they look like so you know how to act. Never click a link or ring a rogue phone number.

See the latest scam email

Source: Which? (25 Sep 2024)

Scammers hijack student loan payments

In a truly nasty scam, we've seen reports of fraudsters hacking Student Finance accounts and replacing the proper recipient's bank details with their own. This is nothing short of theft, and it all starts when scammers ring, text or email an unwitting student.

Find out what's involved and what the Student Loans Company told us about staying safe.

How students can protect themselves

Source: Which? (24 Sep 2024)

Could you spot a copycat website?

They look and feel the same as official government websites, but with some crucial differences. If you need to renew an official document, such as a driving licence or a passport, take these steps to make sure you're in the right place.

Telltale signs of a copycat

Source: Which? (28 Aug 2024)

SCAMARAMA: Don't Get Gummed Up by Phony Fat Burners!

Action Fraud receives over 100 reports of "People's Keto Gummies" scam emails!

Watch out, folks! A new scam is targeting Brits, promising magical weight loss with "People's Keto Gummies." Don't be fooled! These emails are designed to steal your personal and financial information.

Here's the lowdown:

• The emails claim "People's Keto Gummies" will burn fat. This is a blatant lie. There's no magic bullet for weight loss.
• The emails contain links to malicious websites. Clicking these links could download malware or take you to a fake website that looks real but steals your information when you enter it.

How to Fight Back:

• Report suspicious emails! Forward them to report@phishing.gov.uk.
• Report scam websites! Tell the National Cyber Security Centre: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/about-this-website/contact-us
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Never click on links in emails. Go directly to a company's website by typing the address into your browser.
• Don't share personal information with strangers. This includes your name, address, phone number, and especially your bank details!

Beyond Emails: Stay Alert to Other Scams!

Scammers don't just use email. Here are some other common cons to watch out for:

• Door-to-Door Scams: Unsolicited salespeople pushing overpriced or shoddy goods, or even using surveys as a way to collect your personal information.
• Courier Fraud: Fake calls from your bank or law enforcement claiming to need your PIN or credit card details.
• Nottingham Knockers: Young salespeople (often with fake IDs) selling overpriced cleaning products and potentially targeting homes for future burglaries.

Remember:

• Don't be embarrassed to report a scam. The sooner you report it, the easier it is to stop the scammers.
• There's no shame in being targeted. Scammers are clever, and anyone can be a victim.
• Report scams to Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040 or https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

By staying informed and being cautious, you can protect yourself from these scams and keep your hard-earned cash safe!

Scam Alert: Fake Parking Fine Text

Scam Alert: Fake Parking Fine Text - VT reports url phishing

The text message received above appears to be a scam. Here's why:

• Phishing attempt: The message contains a link that directs you to a website claiming to be for paying parking fines. This is a common tactic used by scammers to steal personal information.
• Threat of prosecution: The message also threatens legal action if you don't pay the fine, which is a scare tactic to pressure you into clicking the link.
• Inconsistent information: The sender's phone number is blocked and reported, which is unusual for a legitimate organisation.

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and others:

1. Do not click on the link.
2. Report the message as spam or phishing. This will help prevent others from receiving it.
3. Be cautious of unsolicited messages, especially those that contain links or request personal information.
4. If you believe you may have been a victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement or report it to the appropriate authorities.

You can also report the scam to the following organizations:

• Action Fraud: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/
• Ofcom: https://www.ofcom.org.uk/about-ofcom/
• National Cyber Security Centre: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/

By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and others from falling victim to scams.

Fraud refund scam warning

Scammers love to jump on anything newsworthy and the introduction of the new fraud refund scheme is no exception. We've already seen a phishing attack from fraudsters posing as NatWest, leading potential victims to a copycat website designed to steal their details.

We expect to see more impersonation scams like these as the fraud refund scheme comes into force in October – take a look at this example so you know what to watch out for.

See the new scam email

Source: Which? (17 Sep 2024)

'Annual living allowance' text scam

Fraudsters are attempting to steal personal information using a phoney 'annual living allowance' text and website. With an imitation of the government's Cost of Living Payments scheme, this scam includes a link to a very convincing copycat government website.

Find out what this scam looks like, what the cost of living payment is and how you qualify for it.

Avoid dodgy copycat websites

Source: Which? (18 Sep 2024)