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Being online opens up lots of opportunities, from staying in touch with friends and family to managing your money and using important services . But this can also come with risks. We want to help you to feel confident and safe whilst using the internet.
Here are some common scams to watch out for and simple steps you can take to protect yourself.
Home improvement fraud
If your home needs repairs or improvements, be aware of “rogue traders” who might try to take advantage of you.
Scammers may knock on your door, call or message you, offering cheap, quick fixes or claiming they can get compensation for disrepair.
- Always check with JRHT before agreeing to the work by emailing information@jrht.org.uk or calling 0800 587 0211
- Never feel pressured into saying yes on the spot
Financial fraud
Sometimes scammers pretend they’re offering help such as quick loans, or investment opportunities. This often happens unexpectedly by email or social media.
Take your time to ask a trusted person for advice
Our Money and Benefits Advisors are here to give you free, clear guidance and help you access the support you’re entitled to.
Don’t be rushed into making financial decisions.
‘Friend-in-need’ messages
You may get a text or What’s App message from someone claiming to be a relative or a friend with a “new number”.
- Check by calling your friend or relative directly on their usual number
- Don’t transfer money or share details until you are certain its genuine
Online shopping scams
Watch out for fake adverts and websites when shopping online. Protect yourself by:
- Reading reviews from more than one website
- Checking if the company is registered on Companies House
- Look at their terms and conditions
- Using a debit or credit card (never use a bank transfer)
- Visiting the company’s website directly, rather than clicking on advertisements or links
- Use Check a website - Free Website Scam Checker - Check a website by Get Safe Online which is a free online tool provided by Get Safe Online to see whether the site is legitimate or not
Simple things to remember
- Unexpected Contact. Be cautious of messages from people or organisations you do not know, especially if they ask for personal information.
- Too Good to Be True. It probably is!
- Feeling pressured. Scammers often try to rush you – take your time and consider carefully what they are asking.
- Asked for personal information. Genuine organisations like banks or HMRC won’t ask for your full password, PIN, or bank details via email or text.
- Be suspicious of poor spelling or grammar
- Strange links or attachments. Don’t click or download them. They could lead to malicious websites or download viruses onto your device.
Helpful Resources
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) provides excellent guidance and resources for individuals and families on how to protect themselves online
Get Safe Online offers practical advice to help you stay safe online
Citizens Advice provides advice on identifying and reporting scams