How to avoid phishing scams
Cyber criminals are getting smarter, trying to steal our personal details by sending seemingly innocent emails, texts and social media posts. But there’s no need to worry – our guide has all you need to know to stay one step ahead and avoid taking the bai
Q What’s phishing?
It’s a scam that fraudsters use to trick you into revealing private information, such as passwords and bank details. It could be a text, email, social media post or phone call, with the criminals posing as a business, or even as a friend.
Q Are there any tell-tale signs?
Look for bad spelling and grammar, over-friendly language, too-goodto-be-true offers and threats such as ‘your account will be blocked if you don’t comply’. Don’t reply to messages where you’re asked for personal details, such as logins, card numbers and PIN codes.
Q What’s the best way to protect myself?
‘Assume the worst with every email,’ advises Richard Patterson at Comparitech.com. ‘For example, go to the company’s website rather than clicking on a link from an email.’ Similarly, before opening an attachment, look at the email address to make sure you know the sender and check that your security software is up to date.
Q Are some email addresses more prone to phishing?
Yes, so it’s a good idea to create a ‘complex’ email address. Try substituting letters for numbers and characters, for example, su2an$m1th@idealhome.com. It’s also worth having two email accounts – one that you give out only to people and businesses you trust and another for registering for online forums and newsletters, entering competitions and so on.
Q My email’s been hacked. Help!
First, change your password. If you’ve used the same password on any other online account, change that, too. Warn friends and family as the hacker may send them phishing emails, and notify your bank if there’s a chance your card or account details have been accessed.
Q I’ve fallen for a phishing scam. Can I get my money back?
Contact your bank and let them know what’s happened. Provided you haven’t acted negligently, there’s a good chance they’ll refund you. If you’ve paid by credit card and spent more than £100, you might be able to claim your money back through Section 75 laws. For more advice, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit its website, actionfraud.police.uk.