If ever you needed a reminder that telephone fraud is something to take very seriously indeed, the NCSC recently reported that phone fraud increased by 83% between April 2020 and March 2021 compared to the previous year. This data is according to Which? analysis of Action Fraud data.
This was part of an overall 33% increase in scams reported to Action Fraud, with the most common form being online shopping scams.
Phone fraud includes scams delivered by text message, which can be forwarded to 7726. This free-of-charge service enables your provider to investigate the origin of the text and take action if found to be malicious.
The Action Fraud data also revealed that people aged 20 to 39 were almost twice as likely to report online fraud as people over 60. Scam texts and emails are increasingly convincing, whatever your age. The NCSC guidance can help you spot the most obvious signs.
Data also revealed that online shopping fraud increased by 65% over the same period. The NCSC recently launched a new tool which allows individuals to report websites which they think are trying to scam the public.
More broadly, the NCSC has also published guidance on how to shop securely online.
Reporting
Report all Fraud and Cybercrime to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or online. Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. Report SMS scams by forwarding the original message to 7726 (spells SPAM on the keypad).