Latest scams

Winter Fuel Payment scam alert

Scammers are sending fake text messages claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), following the government's reintroduction of the Winter Fuel Payment. These messages ask people to click a link to apply or share their bank details. This is a scam. The Winter Fuel Payment is paid automatically so you don’t need to apply.

How to stay safe

The DWP will never ask for bank details by text or email, or ask you to click a link to confirm them.
Don’t click on links in suspicious texts or emails.
Check the sender. Official messages will come from a .gov.uk address.
Never share your bank or card details by SMS or email.
Contact the DWP directly if you’re unsure. Only use official channels.

Purchase scams on social media

Scams on social media, especially marketplace sites, are on the rise. Fraudsters post fake ads for items that don’t exist, asking for payment upfront or a large deposit. Once paid, they disappear.

Protect yourself when buying online

Check the seller’s profile, is it new? Do they have reviews or real activity?
Avoid paying a deposit or full amount upfront, especially for high-value items.
Always see the item in person, where possible, before handing over money.
Take your time. Don’t feel pressured into making a quick decision

Oasis ticket scams

Fraudsters are pretending to sell Oasis tickets on social media and online auction sites. They ask to be paid by bank transfer and say they’ll send or transfer the tickets into your name. You send them the money, nothing arrives, and they’ve disappeared.

Always buy tickets from official sources
Be very suspicious of adverts selling tickets on social media sites
Never transfer money to someone you’ve only met online

WhatsApp scams

You get a message from a fraudster who is claiming to be your friend, son, daughter or family member. They say their phone has been damaged and it’s a new number or they are messaging from a friend’s phone. It always an emergency and they need you to send them money urgently.

Check it’s really them. Don’t take any action until you’ve contacted the person on their usual number or met up with them in person.
Ask yourself is this request out of character and does it seem realistic?

Celebrity endorsed investments

Have you seen an advert of a celebrity endorsing an investment opportunity that guarantees high returns? It’s probably a scam. Fraudsters use social media to advertise fake investments, including crypto currency scams and are even using AI so it looks and sounds like the actual celebrity.

Don’t rush into an investment decision. Take your time to research the company and be aware if you’re approached out of the blue.
Check the company is listed on the FCA Financial Services Register.
Remember there is no such thing as a ‘guaranteed return’ – be suspicious of adverts you find on social media making claims like this.
Speak to an independent financial advisor before investing.