Scam support and guidance

What is a scam?

A scam is a fraudulent scheme or deceptive activity created by an individual rather than an automated system or computer program

Scammers can employ various methods to deceive victims such as impersonating government officials, company representatives or law enforcement officers. They may contact people through phone calls, emails, texts messages or even in-person interactions.

You can find further information and support using the resources provided below.

Scams awareness

People of all ages and backgrounds get scammed. Scammers seek to exploit vulnerability – from the coronavirus pandemic to recessions, times of difficulty often see a corresponding increase in related scams and the cost-of-living crisis seems to be no different.

View more information on scams awareness.

Friends Against Scams

Friends Against Scams is a National Trading Standards Scams Team initiative, which aims to protect and prevent people from becoming victims of scams by empowering people to take a stand against scams.

Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams by completing the Friends Against Scams awareness session and help to raise awareness throughout your community.

Visit the Friends Against Scams website.

Citizens Advice

Check if something might be a scam. Scams can be difficult to recognise, but there are things you can look out for.

Visit the Citizens Advice website.

Action Fraud

Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime where you should report fraud if you have been scammed, defrauded or experienced cyber crime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Visit the Action Fraud website.

National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)

The NCSC's cyber security advice to protect you and your family, and the technology you rely on. From banking to shopping, and streaming to social media, people are spending more time than ever online. Cyber Aware is the government's advice on how to stay secure online.

Visit the NCSC website.

MoneyHelper

No one thinks they’ll be caught out by a scam, but it happens more than you’d think.

We’re here to help you understand the different ways you could be scammed, and how to recognise them so you're confident you can spot one and let friends and family know too.

Visit the Money Helper website.

Last updated: 13/06/2023 11:28