The internet has opened up a world of convenience — but unfortunately, it’s also made it easier for scammers to try and trick people. Many of these scams are clever and convincing, and older adults are often targeted. The good news? With a few simple tips, you can spot most scams before they do any harm.

Key notes

• • Be cautious with links in texts and emails

• • Don’t share passwords or PINs — with anyone

• • Call companies back using official phone numbers

• • Talk to a trusted person before taking action

• • Report scams to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk

 

1. The Fake Delivery Text or Email 

What it looks like:
A message that says “Your parcel couldn’t be delivered” or “You must pay a small fee.” It includes a link that looks real — often pretending to be from Royal Mail, DPD or Evri.

What to look out for:

• • You weren’t expecting a parcel 

• • There’s a sense of urgency (e.g. “pay now or it will be returned”) 

• • The link is slightly misspelled or unusual (e.g. royalma1l.co.uk) 

How to stay safe:
Never click the link. Go directly to the official website or contact the courier using details you trust. If unsure, forward the message to us.

 

2. The Fake Bank Alert

What it looks like:
You receive a call, text or email saying there’s been suspicious activity on your account. They may say your money is at risk and ask you to move it to a “safe account.”

What to look out for:

• • They ask you for PINs, passwords or to transfer money 

• • Caller ID may even show your bank’s name (scammers can fake this) 

How to stay safe:

Your bank will NEVER ask for your PIN or to move your money. Hang up, wait five minutes and call your bank directly using the number on the back of your bank card or call ‘159’.

 

3. The “You’ve Won!” or Prize Draw Scam

What it looks like:
An email or Facebook message says you’ve won a prize or a gift card — but first you must “confirm your details” or pay a small fee.

What to look out for:

• • You don’t remember entering any competition 

• • They want personal information or bank details 

• • There’s poor grammar or spelling in the message 

 

How to stay safe:
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Delete the message and don’t reply.

 

4. The Online Shopping Scam

What it looks like:
A website offers big discounts on popular items, like phones or branded clothing. You pay, but the item never arrives — or what arrives is fake.

What to look out for:

• • Prices are unusually low 

• • You’ve never heard of the website 

• • The site has no clear contact details or returns policy 

How to stay safe:
Stick to well-known retailers. Look for a padlock symbol in the address bar (https), and avoid paying by bank transfer — use a credit card or PayPal for better protection.

 

5. The Tech Support Scam

What it looks like:
You receive a pop-up, call or email claiming your computer or iPad has a virus. They ask you to download software or give them remote access.

What to look out for:

• • Unsolicited contact from “Microsoft” or “Apple” 

• • You’re pressured to act fast 

• • They want control of your device 

How to stay safe:
Close the pop-up. Never give remote access to someone you don’t know. If you’re unsure, contact us or someone you trust before doing anything.