Be aware of fraud and scams

Help keep your personal information safe

• Create strong, randomised passwords that aren't the same for multiple accounts
• Use two step logins where possible (also known as two factor authentication)
• Research a company, product or service you haven't used previously, before making a purchase
• Reject offers that come out of the blue, or deals that seem too good to be true
• Keep evidence of online purchases, such as emailed receipts and confirmations of orders
• Call your bank or credit provider straight away if you suspect money has gone missing from your account
• If you've been a victim of a scam, report it to the police
• Report any possible scams to Action Fraud
• Always dispose of personal documents by shredding
• Only use official App stores (e.g. Google play or the Apple app store)

What not to do

• Don't give out personal information over the phone, especially if you don't know the caller. The police, your bank or HMRC will never cold-call you and ask for bank details
• Don't click links in emails and texts that look suspicious or if you don't know the sender
• Don’t ignore software/phone updates
• Don't use the same password for multiple apps or accounts - especially if these have your bank details added
• Don't give personal details to someone who's turned up to your home unannounced
• Don't feel rushed or pressurised into a decision or course of action
• If you think you've been scammed, don't keep it to yourself - act straight away
• Don't be afraid to ask a friend or relative for advice if you're not sure something is legitimate
• Never use public Wi-Fi (hackers can easily be in control of this)