What are Scams
Scams come in many forms, but all are designed to get hold of your money. The tactics used by scammers vary but may be carried out by post, phone, email, text or online. It can even happen when someone calls to your front door. Scams can be disguised as a purchase of goods, entering competitions and even job offers.
It’s important to know the warning signs to look out for and what to do if you have, or think, you’ve been targeted.
Signing up to the free SU financial wellbeing platform, Blackbullion and completing the Scams pathway is a good starting point. This quick 10-minute animation will provide you with the basics.
More detailed information on different scams such as, Phising, Vishing, Advance- fee fraud and Authorised push payment fraud can be found in the guide provided by MoneyHelper
According to Which? Rental Fraud is a growing concern, and with a high demand for rooms to rent in university towns and cities, this is something students should be particularly alert to.
You may want to sign up to Scam Alerts from Which? These emails will alert you to the latest scams doing the rounds and provide practical advice to keep you one step ahead of fraudsters.
If you think someone is trying to trick you into handing over money or personal details - stop, hang up and call 159 to speak directly to your bank. Find out more about using the 159 service here
If you are unfortunate enough to be scammed in England, Wales or Northern Ireland you should report this to Action Fraud
Data to Go, a 'hidden camera' film (created by Cifas in partnership with BBH London), highlights just how easy it is for criminals to get your personal information from the Internet