With each passing day, scammers look to invent newer, cleverer and more successful ways to con you out of your money.
So to try and raise awareness of these ploys, we have put together a list of 5 scams you should avoid.
1. ‘British Airways’ phishing scam
There is a number of phishing emails in circulation, some of which claim to be sent from British Airways. These emails ask customers to confirm flights they haven’t even booked. This is an attempt to get your personal/banking details. British Airways have asked you to look out for emails which ask passengers to pay a BTA tax (Basic Travel Allowance) to travel with a friend.
2. Fake accident claims
These emails are sent from scammers who claim to be Citizens Advice advisers. In addition to sending emails, these imposters have also cold-called and texted members of the public, pretending to offer them help with accident claims. This a ploy to obtain your banking details, so they can cheat you out of thousands of pounds. So if you haven’t had an accident, then don’t provide any personal details. If you have, then make sure your adviser works for a reputable company.
3. Tax rebate phishing
These emails purport to be from HMRC, they carry the official logo and look very convincing. Just over 100,000 people are typically affected by these scams, especially in the three months running up to the self assessment deadline on 31 January – a 47% increase on last year. HMRC always send a letter through the post, so any emails should be avoided.
4. ‘Flappy Bird’ malicious app
After Flappy Bird’s developer, Dong Nguyen, decided the game was too addictive and had “become a problem”, he removed it from the app store. Shortly after this, scammers created clone apps, which contained malicious software. The idea was to trick users into sending premium rate text messages. Always make sure you read the ‘Terms & Conditions’ before you download any new app/apk.
5. Rebate scam
Moving away from the online realm of scamming, there is also a phone scam you should look out for. During this call, you will be asked to purchase Ukash vouchers, in order to receive a rebate from the Office of Fair Trading. The scammers will tell you that you can reclaim thousands of pounds of bank, or other charges such as payment protection insurance (PPI). They will also claim the service requires an upfront payment of between £200 and £250 from you – which should be made via a money transfer.
Have you been affected by any of these scams?
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