Avoiding Scams

Avoiding ScamsThere are some general rules that should set alarm bells ringing wherever you see them. Be very suspicious if:• something sounds too good to be true – like free stuff or quick, easy

money• you’re asked to give out personal or bank account information• you aren't given long to make a decision or feel pressured into

making one immediately• you’re contacted unexpectedly by a company or person you have

never heard of – this can be by post, email, phone, text or on the doorstep

• you’re asked to pay anything up-front• the only contact details are a mobile phone number and a PO box

address

Common Scams (1)

• Phishing – Collecting personal details

• Pharming – Fake Website e.g. coach

• Advance-fee fraud - ‘Nigerian bank scam’

• Dating fraud• Money Mules –

Forwarding criminals money

Common Scams (2)

• Boiler rooms – Hard sell fake shares

• Vehicle Fraud – Is it really their car?

• Online auction fraud – e-bain• Job scams – Great job, just pay agency fee• Health scams – Wonder vitamins

Common Scams (3)• Prize draws,

sweepstakes and lottery scams

• Property Fraud• Face to face fraud – Charities / Prizes etc• Pension scams• Training course scams – Do this training to

get a job in film industry.