Fraud and scams

Have you been affected by fraud or a scam?

Fraud is when someone deliberately deceives or manipulates you to steal money, belongings, personal information or other assets.

People who commit fraud often work hard to appear trustworthy. They may pretend to be someone official, create convincing stories or use pressure and urgency to persuade you to act quickly.

Fraud can happen to anyone, and it can take place in many different ways – online, over the phone, by email, through social media, or even at your own front door.

Being targeted by fraud is never your fault. The responsibility always lies with the person committing the crime.

Types of fraud

Fraud can take many different forms. Some of the most common include:

Doorstep fraud – Someone comes to your home and tricks you to get into your property or make you pay for work you don’t need.

Identity theft – Someone steals your personal information and pretends to be you. They may open bank accounts, take out loans, or buy things using your name.

Online fraud – Someone targets you through the internet, for example by sending emails that look like they’re from your bank, creating fake websites, or selling things that do not exist.

Fraud can also involve fake charities, investment scams, romance scams, or criminals pretending to represent trusted organisations.

If you think someone has stolen your identity:

You might notice bills for things you didn’t buy, debts you don’t recognise, or bank accounts in your name you didn’t open. Contact the organisation involved as soon as possible and explain that the activity may be fraudulent.

How you might be feeling

Experiencing fraud can affect people in many different ways.

As well as dealing with financial loss, you may feel:

  • Shocked or upset about what has happened
  • Embarrassed or ashamed
  • Angry or frustrated
  • Anxious about your finances or personal information
  • Worried that it could happen again

Some people lose confidence in using technology or managing their money. Others feel reluctant to talk about what happened.

These reactions are completely understandable. Fraudsters are skilled at deception and manipulation, and many people are affected every day.

If you’ve experienced fraud, you are not alone and support is available.

Get the help you need

If you would like information, advice or emotional support, call us on 0800 876 6155. We can listen to what has happened and help you understand what support options are available.

You can get support whether or not the incident has been reported to the police.

You may also find help from the organisations below.

Action Fraud – Provides a way to report fraud or cybercrime and access guidance and support.
Phone: 0300 123 2040

MoneyHelper – Offers independent advice about money, scams and financial wellbeing. You can report scams to the Financial Crime and Scams Unit.
Phone: 0800 015 4402

Citizens Advice – Provides free advice about scams, consumer rights and what steps you can take next.

Get Safe Online – Provides guidance on staying safe online, including tools to help check whether a website may be fraudulent.

Which? – Offers advice about scams and your rights as a consumer.

Stop! Think Fraud – A government-backed campaign with advice and information about recognising and avoiding scams.

You may also find it helpful to speak with someone you trust, like a friend or family member. Talking about what happened can help you feel less alone and may help you think through your next steps.

Reporting fraud

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.

To report fraud or a non-emergency incident, you can:

You can also share information anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is a charity that is independent of the police.

Reporting fraud can help authorities understand how criminal operate and may help prevent others from being targeted.

Protecting yourself from fraud

Fraudsters are constantly changing their tactics, but there are steps that may help reduce the risk:

  • Take time to check who someone is before sharing personal information
  • Contact organisations directly using trusted contact details if something seems suspicious
  • Be cautious about unexpected calls, emails or message asking for personal or financial information
  • Destroy documents that contain personal information before disposing of them
  • Pause before responding to offers that feel urgent or ‘too good to be true’
  • Double-check website addresses and email senders before clicking links
  • Research unfamiliar websites or sellers before making purchases
  • Contact your bank directly if you’re unsure whether a message is genuine

You’re never under any obligation to let someone into your home or agree to work or purchases immediately.

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent fraud and criminals often target people in sophisticated ways. If you’ve experienced fraud, it doesn’t mean you were careless.

Can you get your money back?

If you’ve lost money through fraud, your bank may be able to help, particularly if you contact them quickly.

If you report fraud to Action Fraud and the case is investigated by the police, they may consider whether any money can be recovered.

If recovery isn’t possible through a criminal investigation, you may be able to pursue compensation through civil action. Citizens Advice can provide guidance about your rights and options.

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