- Don’t automatically select links in emails or text messages. Firstly check spellings and names in the address of a website page (also known as a URL) to make sure they’re genuine.
- Contact companies directly using a known email or phone number to make sure their approach was genuine.
- Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. The email will be investigated by the National Cyber Security Centre.
- Forward suspicious texts to 7726 - it's free. This will report the message to your mobile phone provider.
- Never give remote access to your computer following an unsolicited call or text even if they say they’re from your provider.
Be wary when you're contacted out of the blue |
Beware of those who contact you unexpectedly, especially if they're promising financial gains or asking for personal information.
Did you know? It's illegal for companies to call you with pension offers out-of-the blue so these kinds of calls will never come from authorised companies or individuals. |
Verify the source |
Before engaging with any financial services or products, verify that the company is legitimate.
Did you know? You can check that a financial services company is legitimate with the at Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) |
Protect your personal information |
Keep your information safe and improve your online security by using strong, unique passwords for each account.
Consider using a trusted password manager to help keep track of your passwords and usernames – don't write them down where they're easy to find. Did you know? Legitimate organisations would never request sensitive data (like passwords) through email. They don’t need this information to access your account legitimately. |
Recognise the warning signs |
If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be particularly cautious of deals that promise unusually high returns on investments or ways to get rich quick.
Did you know? Scammers often employ high-pressure tactics, urging you to act quickly or confidentially. Take your time to evaluate any financial decisions. |