Five scams to watch out for this winter

Scammers are clever, and they often strike when we’re busy or worried. Here are five tricks to look out for, and how to stay one step ahead.

1. The “missed parcel” text

A message says a delivery couldn’t be made and asks you to pay a small fee through a link. Real couriers don’t ask for fees this way. Don’t click: forward the text to 7726 (it’s free), then delete it.

2. “Hi Mum, I’ve got a new number”

A message from “your son” or “your granddaughter” says they’ve lost their phone and need money urgently. Before doing anything, call them on the number you already have. Many families agree a code word that only they know: a scammer won’t know it.

3. “Your bank account is at risk”

A caller says they’re from your bank and asks you to move your money to a “safe account”. Your bank will never ask you to do this. Hang up, then call 159, which safely connects you to most UK banks, or the number on the back of your card.

4. The “refund” or “payment” message

An email or text says you’re owed money, perhaps from a government department or your energy supplier, and asks for your bank details. Don’t reply or click. Go to the organisation’s own website, or call a number you trust.

5. The friendly stranger who needs help

Someone you’ve met online or over the phone slowly builds trust, then has an emergency and needs money. If anyone you haven’t met in person asks for money, stop and talk to someone you trust first.

The golden rule: stop, check, protect

Never let anyone rush you. It’s always fine to hang up, take a breath, and ask family or a friend.

If you’ve been scammed, don’t be embarrassed. It happens to clever, careful people every day. Call your bank straight away on 159, then report it to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

In DedSafe, your Scam safety page keeps your family code word and the real numbers to call, and can print a card for the fridge.