cyber and fraud

cyber and fraud

Hello,

We often get asked questions regarding fraud and scams. Below, I have provided some key information that may answer those curious questions.

Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime where you should report fraud if you have been scammed, defrauded or experienced cyber crime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They provide a central point of contact for information about fraud and financially motivated internet crime.

Action Fraud messages are typically scam texts, emails, or calls trying to trick you into giving personal/financial info; you report suspicious ones by forwarding texts to 7726, reporting emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk for HMRC scams and Action Fraud (0300 123 2040 in England/Wales), The key is to Stop, Think, Fraud, be wary of urgent requests for details, and verify official contacts through GOV.UK.

How to report scam messages

Suspicious Texts (Smishing): Forward the message to 7726, then report the sender's number when prompted (it's free).

Suspicious Emails: Forward the email to report@phishing.gov.uk (this goes to the National Cyber Security Centre).

Suspicious Letters: Report to Royal Mail by sending it to 'Freepost Scam Mail' with a report.

What to do if you've fallen for a scam

Contact your bank immediately if you've shared financial details or lost money.

Report to Action Fraud: Visit www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040 (England, Wales, NI).

In Scotland: Report to Police Scotland on 101.

Key things to watch for (warning signs)

Urgency: Messages demanding immediate action.

Requests for personal/financial info: Legitimate organizations won't ask for this via unexpected texts or emails.

Unusual links/QR codes: Especially if they claim to be from HMRC or the police.

Official guidance

Report Fraud (actionfraud.police.uk) is the UK's home for reporting cybercrime and fraud.

GOV.UK provides guidance on avoiding and reporting internet scams.

Can I get scammed if I respond to a text message?

Yes, responding to a scam text can lead to being scammed because it confirms your number is active, making you a bigger target for more spam, phishing, and potential malware if you click links, leading to financial loss or identity theft, even though the text itself doesn't directly hack your phone. Scammers use replies to verify your number, opening the door for fraudulent schemes, malicious links, or software, and information theft.

Risks of Replying

Confirms Active Number:

A simple reply proves your number is real, placing you on lists sold to other scammers.

More Spam:

You'll likely receive more scam texts, calls, and emails.

Phishing & Malware:

Links can lead to fake sites to steal info or install malware, spyware, or ransomware.

Identity Theft:

Scammers can manipulate you into revealing personal data (SSN, bank details) for fraud.

What to Do If You Respond

Stop Communication: Immediately cease all interaction with the sender.

Monitor Accounts: Watch your bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity.

Change Passwords: If you shared any login info, change those passwords right away.

Report It: Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) and report it to the FTC.

Prevention

Don't Engage: Never click links, open attachments, or reply to unknown numbers.

Block & Delete: Block the number and delete the message.

Verify Senders: Be suspicious of texts claiming to be from banks or delivery services; go directly to the official source.

Regards

Pcso Bukhari

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Message Sent By
Tamima Bukhari
(police, police community support officer, Nechells NPT, BWHC)