Learn to recognise common UK scams
Get familiar with the scams most commonly used against people in the UK right now — from fake parcel delivery texts to HMRC phone calls. Knowing what to expect is the first line of defence.
Why this matters
Scammers targeting people in the UK adapt their tactics constantly. The most common active scams — fake parcel delivery texts, HMRC impersonation calls, and bank fraud warnings — account for hundreds of millions of pounds in losses each year. Knowing the patterns in advance puts you ahead of the attacker.
How to do it
- Read the National Cyber Security Centre's current scam alerts at ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online.
- Know the top three UK scam types: fake parcel delivery SMS asking you to pay a small fee; HMRC calls demanding immediate tax payment; bank calls claiming your account is compromised and asking you to transfer funds to a 'safe account.'
- Remember: your bank will never ask you to move money to a safe account. HMRC will never demand immediate payment over the phone. Parcel delivery companies will never ask for card details via SMS link.
- Set a rule for yourself: if you did not initiate the contact, do not click, do not pay, and do not share personal details. Call the organisation back using a number from their official website.
- Report scams to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
Cyber Essentials framework
This task falls under the Malwarecontrol — one of five areas assessed in the UK's Cyber Essentials scheme. Completing it counts toward your Cyber Essentials alignment.
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