Know the scams to avoid the scams

• Fake parcel scams

  Scammers send fake delivery notifications, urging you to click a link to reschedule a parcel. This is a phishing tactic to steal your personal data or install malware. Avoid clicking suspicious links, and always check deliveries on a company's official website.

• Advance payment scams

  Scammers trick victims into making upfront payments for goods, services, or financial gains that never materialise. They use enticing offers like cheap electronics, luxury items, loans, or investments to lure victims. Once payment is made, nothing is delivered, and the promises turn out to be fake.

• Marketplace scams

  Fraudsters on online marketplaces and fake websites lure victims with low prices, demanding pre-payment but never delivering the goods. Research vendors carefully, use reputable sellers, and for secondhand purchases, choose those with good reviews or who accept payment upon delivery.

• Investment scams 

  Be cautious of investment opportunities that seem too good to be true. Fraudsters often use fake social media posts to trick you, and even use websites that show your “investment” growing. But when you try to withdraw cash, there is none. Always stick to licensed platforms.

• Fake job scams

  Remote job scams frequently involve fake job offers designed to steal money. Scammers may request upfront payments or assign tasks that lead to eventual payments. These criminals often use messaging apps and pose as legitimate companies or recruiters to target victims.

• Phishing scams

  Scammers impersonate organisations like government agencies or police to gain trust. They trick victims into making payments or revealing sensitive information, using that to access accounts or create fake ones. Always verify the identity of anyone requesting payments or information.

• Payment diversion fraud

  Fraudsters send official-looking emails or letters with fake invoices for services you already use. They trick you into clicking a link which makes a payment to their account, not the company you think you’re paying. So always be wary of changes in payment details.

• Fake CEO fraud

  Scammers pose as high-ranking company officials and instruct employees to make urgent payments to fraudulent accounts. Always follow company procedures for payments, even if the request appears to come from the CEO or other high-level executive.

• Property scams

  Be wary of upfront fees to reserve a property or book a viewing, and when paying rent. Fraudsters often use stolen photos and ask for payments outside official platforms. Use reverse-image searches to check photos haven’t been taken from legitimate sources. Always verify information before making payments.