Protect yourself from scams

Scammers are very clever at duping people into believing their scams are genuine. Here’s how you can help yourself from falling victim to them:

• Be suspicious – be alert to the warning signs. Check out the How To Spot Scams page for advice.
• Delay – don’t agree to offers or deals immediately. Insist on time to obtain independent advice before making a decision.
• Remember your rights – if you agree to buy goods or services and the price is £42 or more you have cancellation rights under the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013.
• Hold payments – never send money to someone you don’t know or trust.
• Buy securely – only make payments online if there is a padlock symbol in the browser window frame and you’ve carefully checked the web address for subtle misspellings, additional words and characters and other irregularities.
• Double check – if you’re unsure, contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline for help and advice on 03454 04 05 06 before you act.
• Safeguard your details – never give your banking details or personal information to anyone you don’t know or trust.
• Delete – delete any suspicious emails or throw away any junk mail.
• Block – contact your telephone supplier to see what call blocking options are available to you.
• Seek a Trading Standards approved trader – if you’re seeking someone to help in your home, e.g. with home improvements or gardening, we recommend using a Buy With Confidence member – 01392 383430.

For further advice and guidance, contact the organisations in the list on the righthand side of this page.

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