Scams - How to spot them and stay protected

Scams are becoming increasingly common and more convincing. Understanding how scams work and knowing the warning signs can help you protect your money and personal information.

What is a scam?

A scam is ways of misleading people into sharing personal information, giving access to their accounts, or sending money to someone pretending to be trustworthy or offering something that isn't real. Scammers may contact you in different ways, including by email, phone call, text message, or even in person, and their methods are becoming more sophisticated over time.

Common signs of a scam

There are several simple ways to identify a scam. Common warning signs include:

• Spelling and wording is inaccurate
• Noticing a sense of urgency to act quickly
• Being asked for bank details or passwords and told not to tell anyone
• The email address looks unfamiliar.

It is important to remember that we will never ask for bank details, account passwords, or PIN numbers. If you are unsure about a message claiming to be from FSCS or another organisation, contact them directly using their official contact details.

You can also find practical advice on how to protect yourself from scams on the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) website:
Protect yourself from scams.

A recent example of a scam

In a recent case, reported by 'The Guardian', a driver received £8,500 in ULEZ penalty charge notices after their car's number plate was cloned and used on a similar vehicle driving in London, even though they had never driven there.
There were several clear warning signs:

• The fines were for journeys the driver did not make
• The number and value of the charges were unusually high
• Escalation to threats of enforcement or bailiffs before the issue has been properly resolved

These are clear indicators that the message was not genuine. If you want to read more on this case, visit: I got £8,500 in Ulez fines after my car number plate was cloned.

Remember: FSCS does and does not

To help you stay protected, it is important to know the facts about FSCS:

• We only uses email addresses ending in @fscs.org.uk
• We only compensates customers of UK‑authorised firms
• We do not protect crypto assets
• We have a maximum compensation limit of £120,000 per person, per firm
• We would never ask you for money.

Stay alert and stay safe

Scammers rely on pressure and confusion. Taking a moment to stop, check the details, and question unexpected messages can help keep you safe. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and seek advice using official channels.

Protecting yourself starts with knowing the signs.