How to spot a scam

Lucy Harmer, Director of Services at Independent Age, the older people’s charity, gives her expert tips on how to spot a scam. The charity has just launched a new, free advice guide, called Scamwise: Spotting, avoiding and reporting scams, which can be ordered for free via independentage.org/scamwise or by calling 0800 319 6789

1. Is it unexpected? – It could be a scam if you’re contacted out of the blue – for example, an unexpected communication from a person or company you’ve never heard of, or from what seems to be a familiar company but asking for something unlikely.

2. Is it telling you to take urgent action? – Tight deadlines and ‘make sure you don’t miss out’-type language are designed to pile on the pressure and stop you from thinking clearly. Scammers might try to make you panic by suggesting you’ll be at risk legally or financially if you delay.

3. Does it seem unlikely? – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. For example, you might be told you’ve won a prize draw you don’t remember entering, or be offered an investment opportunity with returns that sound improbably good.

4. Does it tell you to keep it secret? – Be suspicious if you’re asked not to tell anyone else, or told not to ring an organisation like your bank to check what you’re being told is accurate. This can stop you sharing information with other people who might notice something suspicious.

5. Does it look unprofessional? – Bad spelling and grammar, and overly familiar or odd language, are common in scams. This is a deliberate tactic to target the most vulnerable people, who might not notice these errors. Scam communications might use vague or unlikely-looking contact details, such as a mobile phone number, a PO Box, or an email address that’s different to what you would expect.

6. Does it ask you to pay money upfront? – Scammers might charge you for goods or services that won’t materialise, to release a non-existent prize they claim you’ve won, or to claim a non-existent inheritance. You would never have to pay to release money that is owed to you.

7. Does it ask for personal or banking information? – Never disclose your passwords or bank card PIN. Neither the bank nor police would ever ask for this.

8. A communication doesn’t need to tick all of these boxes to be a scam – For example, some may look very professional and genuine. If you’re not sure, call the customer services number at the company to check if it’s real. Don’t use any phone numbers from the possible scam communication, but instead use a source you trust such as the company’s website or the phone book.