Protecting yourself against financial crime

Protecting yourself against financial crime

Fraud is on the rise, with more and more scams coming to light each day, so it is vital that you know how to protect yourself.

Whether it’s your personal data or your money, there’s lots you can do to make sure yourself and your family are protected.

Identity theft is one of the most common scams in the UK. It happens when fraudsters access enough information about someone’s identity (such as their name, date of birth, current or previous addresses) to commit identity fraud. Identity theft can take place whether the fraud victim is alive or deceased.

Stealing an individual’s identity details does not, on its own, constitute identity fraud.

But using that identity for any of the following activities does:

• Open bank accounts.
• Obtain credit cards, loans and state benefits.
• Order goods in your name.
• Take over your existing accounts.
• Take out mobile phone contracts.
• Obtain genuine documents such as passports and driving licences in your name.

Cryptocurrency fraud alert

Most of us spent more time online during the pandemic than ever before, as such reports of cryptocurrency fraud have increased significantly.

With criminals having more opportunities to contact unsuspecting victims, it's crucial that anyone thinking about making an investment does their research first. We must remain vigilant, take time to stop and think before transferring large sums and be careful what personal information is shared.

Action Fraud report they are seeing record levels of cryptocurrency fraud, with an average of over £20,500 lost per victim.

"One common tactic used to defraud victims is the use of celebrity endorsements. Criminals will present professional and credible looking online adverts, send emails and create websites to advertise fake investment opportunities, including cryptocurrency. Often, fake testimonials are accompanied with a picture of a well-known figure to help the investment seem legitimate."

So what is cryptocurrency fraud?

Cryptocurrencies are in the news constantly. Known for their market volatility they're a digital or virtual currency designed as a medium of exchange. As their popularity increases, criminals have capitalised on this to help them steal millions, either directly through large bank transfers or by taking out personal loans in an unsuspecting victim's name.

Criminals will promise high returns through investment or mining (the process of creating new 'coins'). Frequently mentioned on social media, fraudsters try to lure you in with claims of easy cash in order to obtain your money or personal information.

How to protect yourself

Be wary of any such claims that promise high returns from cryptoassets. Remain suspicious if you are contacted out the blue about any investment opportunity, either via a cold-call, an e-mail or message via social media.

No legitimate person or firm will pressure you, so don’t be rushed into making an investment. As most firms advertising and selling investments in crypto are not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), take time to do your research. Without this protection you don't have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme should things go wrong – so check the FCA Register to be sure you’re dealing with an authorised firm. Any listed on the FCA Warning List should always be avoided.

Even genuine investment opportunities can be high risk, so it's always a good idea to take independent professional advice
to help prevent you from falling victim to scammers.

Remember, a glossy website and glowing customer reviews does not mean they're genuine. Fraudsters will always try very hard to convince you they are not a scam.

If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.