Scams are found in many different forms and often they come in disguise. You must be able to notice the warning signs whether you are being targeted or not. Let us discuss few such scams that are prevalent these days.
Phishing
In this type of scam, you may receive certain email from a well-known source like PayPal, Amazon or Apple etc. They may provide certain link where you are asked to click as well as log-in by submitting all details about you. They may send a very attractive message so that you are tempted to log-in to their website. In fact, your information is stored on fake websites.
In another version of such scam, you may get a file as an enclosure. When you open the enclosure, your computer is attacked by virus.
How can you spot it?
- If you are addressed as “Dear Sir/Madam” then it can’t be legitimate email. Any legitimate email will prefer to address you with your name.
- Check the email address of the sender. If it is from any recognized institution then you can find the name of the institution on their email address. Otherwise, it will be prefixed by certain number or there may be deliberate spelling mistakes.
Most of the money fraud attorney will ask you to exercise some control and avoid such unsolicited emails. Never click on the enclosure unless you are very sure about the source.
Vishing
You may get certain phone call where the caller may pretend that he is calling from a bank or government body and try to know about your details.
How to spot?
Usually it is a bit difficult as on the face of it appears to be genuine. However, if you notice that the caller is too desperate to get your info then you may get suspicious.
If you are reasonably sure that it was fraudulent call, then you hang up the call. If you are not sure then call your bank to verify it.
Investment Scams
You may be approached either by phone call or email or someone may knock your door and explain you their scheme. These types of scams may vary however the main purpose remains the same, where they expect you to hand over your money in order to either invest in any product or in their company.
How to spot?
Some times it is quite difficult to identify such scam as the scheme looks genuine and they show their legitimate website with many testimonials too. You must enquire from any regulator or agency to find the genuineness. You must remember any legitimate company will never contact you suddenly to provide you an investment opportunity. If you are promised very high returns with very low risk then you must immediately reject it. It will be sure shot scam.
If you are ever cheated by any unscrupulous people then you must immediately report the matter to FCA or you can also report the matter to online action fraud police.