Stop Scams & Fraud

I’ll be honest with you phishing scams have become ridiculously sophisticated. Just last week, I received an email that looked so convincing that I almost clicked on it before my training kicked in. The sender appeared to be from my bank, complete with official logos and formatting. It’s no wonder that phishing continues to be a major cyber security threat in 2025, with the sophistication and frequency of attacks rising. The reality is that cybercriminals are getting smarter, and their tactics are evolving faster than ever. In 2025, phishing attacks have become more advanced, using AI-generated emails and deepfake technology to exploit human error and bypass defenses. We’re dealing with attacks that would have seemed like science fiction just a few years ago. But here’s the thing – you don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect yourself. You just need to know what to look for and how […]

The job market in 2025 has become increasingly digital, creating new opportunities for both legitimate employers and unfortunately, sophisticated scammers. With millions of people actively searching for employment, recruitment fraud has evolved into a billion-dollar industry that targets unsuspecting job seekers. Recent statistics show that 14 million people in the U.S. and Canada are exposed to job scams annually, resulting in $2 billion in direct losses. As someone who has witnessed the devastating impact these scams can have on individuals and families, I want to share this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the job search safely. The recruitment landscape has changed dramatically, and so have the tactics used by fraudsters. This blog post will look at 10 Common Recruitment Job Scams to Avoid Why Recruitment Scams Are More Dangerous Than Ever Before diving into specific scams, it’s important to understand why these fraudulent schemes have become so prevalent. The

In today’s digital-first world, cyber attacks on major retailers can ripple effect far beyond the companies themselves. Recently, reports of cyber attacks targeting UK retailers—including Co-op and Marks and Spencer—have sparked concern among customers and cybersecurity experts alike. As fraudsters seize the opportunity to exploit data breaches and heightened consumer anxiety, it has become more important than ever to know how to protect against Co-op and Marks and Spencer scams after a cyber attack. Co-op and M&S have been hit with major cyberattacks in the past few weeks, causing disruption to online orders and stock availability in stores. M&S online orders have been paused since 25 April, with no indication as to when things may return to normal. Both retailers have also warned that some customer data was accessed by the hackers, understood to be a criminal group named DragonForce. A significant amount of data from 20 million past and

In today’s hyper-connected digital landscape, we entrust cloud platforms with everything from family photos to sensitive business files. iCloud, Apple’s flagship icloud service, is used by hundreds of millions worldwide. But just as iCloud has become an integral part of our digital lives, so too has it become a prime target for scammers. One of the most prevalent tactics today is the iCloud storage is full email scam. This blog post will help you protect yourself against iCloud storage is full scam, what they are, how they work, how to recognise them, and most importantly, how to stop getting scammed Whether you’re a personal user or a small business, understanding this threat is crucial for digital safety in 2025. What Is the iCloud Storage Is Full Email Scam The “iCloud storage is full” scam is a type of phishing attack designed to deceive Apple users into giving away sensitive login

In 2023, global consumers lost over $10 billion to fraud—a staggering figure that’s expected to rise as scammers harness cutting-edge technology like AI, quantum computing, and immersive virtual platforms. By 2025, these threats will be more personalized, persuasive, and harder to detect. From deepfake-powered extortion to metaverse cons, this blog post looks at the latest Scams You Need to Watch Out for in 2025. We’ll unpack how they work, share real-world examples, and equip you with actionable strategies to protect your money, data, and peace of mind. Let’s get started. 1. AI-Powered Deepfake Scams: The Rise of Digital Doppelgängers What’s New in 2025? Deepfake technology has moved beyond celebrity face-swaps. Fraudsters now use generative AI tools like OpenAI’s Sora or DeepFaceLab to create real-time video calls, clone voices, and fabricate “evidence” (e.g., fake legal documents or hostage videos). How It Works Scammers scrape social media for photos, videos, and voice clips. They use AI

When it comes to summer travel, Airbnb is a go-to platform for finding unique accommodations that fit various budgets. However, with the rise in Airbnb’s popularity, scammers have also found new ways to exploit unsuspecting guests. If you’re planning your next getaway, it’s essential to understand how these scams work and how to protect yourself. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 common Airbnb scams in great detail, backed with actionable advice to ensure your vacation is smooth, safe, and enjoyable. 1. Fake Listings: The Alluring Mirage Fake listings are among the most common Airbnb scams. Scammers create these listings using photos stolen from other websites or even real properties, making the accommodation look irresistible. These listings often advertise luxury amenities at unbeatable prices, tempting unsuspecting travelers to book. How It Works Step 1: Scammers copy photos and descriptions from legitimate listings, sometimes from other platforms like Zillow or Booking.com. Step

The Winter Fuel Payment scheme is a lifeline for many pensioners, providing vital financial assistance during the colder months. However, this invaluable support system is increasingly being exploited by fraudsters who prey on the elderly and vulnerable. These scammers use sophisticated tactics to deceive recipients into revealing personal information or handing over their hard-earned money. This blog post will look at winter fuel payment scams, from understanding how these frauds operate to learning actionable strategies to avoid becoming a victim. By the end, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to protect yourself and your loved ones from these predatory schemes. If someone calls you with an Indian accent about winter fuel payment from a telephone number you do not recognize, they are most likely a scammer from an Indian call centre. Put the phone down straight away! 1. What Is the Winter Fuel Payment The Winter Fuel Payment is a

Black Friday, originally an American tradition, has grown into a global phenomenon. In recent years, the shopping event has spread beyond the United States, and retailers everywhere participate by slashing prices on big-ticket items and popular products. Unfortunately, scammers also see this as a prime opportunity to take advantage of people’s desire for a good deal. Understanding the risks and knowing what to look for are essential for a safe shopping experience. In the blog post, we will provide you with a guide how to avoid black Friday scams online. During Black Friday, scam tactics are more creative and believable. According to a study by Cybersecurity Ventures, online scams spike significantly around major retail events, with phishing emails alone increasing by nearly 200% during Black Friday weekend. 2. Common Types of Black Friday Scams Scammers employ various methods to defraud consumers. Here are some common types to be aware of:

In recent years, pension scams have become an increasingly concerning issue in the UK. With people more reliant on their pensions than ever before to secure a comfortable retirement, fraudsters are targeting unsuspecting individuals with elaborate schemes designed to separate them from their hard-earned savings. Unfortunately, the consequences of falling victim to a pension scam can be financially devastating and often irreversible. In this blog post, we’ll walk through the essential steps you can take to protect yourself from pension scams in the UK. We’ll explain how pension scams work, the warning signs to look out for, and provide valuable tips on how to safeguard your future retirement income. What Are Pension Scams Pension scams occur when fraudsters convince individuals to transfer or release money from their pension under false pretenses. Often, these scams offer too-good-to-be-true investment opportunities, free pension reviews, or ways to unlock pension money before the legal

The digital landscape has opened up numerous possibilities for legitimate businesses and cybercriminals alike. Scammers have become more sophisticated, using new technologies, social engineering, and even artificial intelligence to deceive victims. It’s essential to recognize that scammers no longer rely solely on emails or phone calls to con people out of their hard-earned money. In 2024, scams are more personalized and harder to detect. The scammers may pose as government agencies, tech companies, or even trusted friends. As their methods grow more sophisticated, the only way to stay safe is by educating yourself about these evolving tactics. 1. Phishing 2.0 Phishing scams have been around for years, but they have taken on a new form in 2024. Traditional phishing involves sending fake emails designed to trick users into divulging personal information. However, Phishing 2.0 involves highly targeted attacks using AI-generated emails that appear incredibly authentic. These phishing attacks often mimic

The digital world is full of conveniences, but unfortunately, it’s also home to many scams. One of the more prevalent forms of fraud in the UK right now is mobile phone delivery scams. These scams often revolve around seemingly legitimate text messages, emails, or calls claiming to be from reputable couriers, delivery services, or even mobile phone providers. If you’re living in the UK or have had a package delivered here, you may have already encountered such fraudulent schemes. In this post, we’ll look into what UK mobile phone delivery scams are, how they work, what you should be aware of, and, more importantly, how to protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. What are Mobile Phone Delivery Scams Mobile phone delivery scams are fraudulent attempts to steal your personal information, financial data, or even your mobile phone through deceptive methods. Scammers often disguise themselves as courier companies like

Understanding the Nature of Indian Scams Indian scammers are notorious for operating large-scale fraud operations, often targeting individuals and businesses in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. These scammers typically impersonate legitimate organizations, such as tech support companies, government agencies, or financial institutions, to trick their victims into providing sensitive information or money. If someone calls you with an Indian accent from Microsoft, Amazon or asks you to install software on your phone, terminate the call straight away Some of the most common types of scams originating from India include Tech Support Scams: Fraudsters claim to be from major companies like Microsoft or Apple and inform victims that their computer has been infected with a virus. They then offer to fix the problem for a fee. IRS or CRA Scams: Scammers pretend to be from tax authorities such as the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) in

Scams have become more prevalent than ever, targeting people from all walks of life. Whether it’s a dodgy email, a phone call from a so-called “official,” or an elaborate online con, scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people. But don’t worry, there are plenty of things you can do to protect yourself. In this blog post, we’ll dive into 30 ways you can stop scams and keep your personal information safe. We’ll also include some links to resources that can help you stay one step ahead of the fraudsters. 1. Stay Informed About Common Scams Scammers are always evolving their tactics, so keeping yourself up-to-date on the latest scams is crucial. Sign up for email alerts from trusted sources like the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) or Action Fraud, which provides updates on common frauds circulating in the UK. 2. Don’t Trust Unsolicited Communications If

In an increasingly digital world, scams are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect. The UK has seen a rise in various types of fraud, especially as more people rely on online services. Understanding these scams is crucial in safeguarding yourself and your finances. In this blog post, we’ll cover the top 20 UK scams for 2024 and provide you with practical tips on how to avoid falling victim to them. 1. Phishing Scams What is it? Phishing scams involve cybercriminals impersonating legitimate organizations, typically through email, to trick you into providing personal information like passwords, credit card numbers, or bank account details. These emails often look like they’re from trusted sources such as banks, online retailers, or even government agencies. How to Avoid It: Verify the Source: Always check the sender’s email address carefully. Even if the email looks official, slight discrepancies like an extra letter or a different

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, scams and frauds have become increasingly sophisticated. With the rapid advancement of technology and the global interconnectedness of markets, scammers have found new ways to exploit businesses of all sizes. Understanding these scams and learning how to protect yourself is crucial for maintaining the integrity and financial health of your business. This blog post will explore some of the most common business scams and provide practical tips on how to safeguard your business. 1. Email Phishing Scams What is Email Phishing? Email phishing is one of the most prevalent types of scams targeting businesses. Scammers send fraudulent emails that appear to be from reputable sources, such as banks, suppliers, or even colleagues. The goal is to trick recipients into providing sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or bank account details. How to Identify Email Phishing Unusual Sender Address: Check the email address

1. Introduction to Cybersecurity What is Cybersecurity? Cyber security refers to the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These cyberattacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information, extorting money from users, or interrupting normal business processes. Importance for Small Businesses Small businesses are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals. Often perceived as low-hanging fruit due to their typically weaker defences compared to larger enterprises, small businesses need to prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard their data, reputation, and financial health. A cyberattack can have devastating consequences, including financial losses, legal repercussions, and loss of customer trust. 2. Common Cyber Threats for Small Businesses Phishing Phishing is a method used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data. These attacks are typically conducted via email, where the attacker poses as a legitimate entity to deceive the

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, remote PC software has become a cornerstone of modern computing. Its ability to facilitate remote access and control of computers from anywhere in the world has revolutionized how businesses operate and individuals interact with technology. However, this convenience comes with a dark side: the potential for misuse by scammers. This blog post explores how cybercriminals leverage remote PC software to execute their schemes, the techniques they use, and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. If Someone Calls You Asking You To Install Remote Software On Your Computer DO NOT INSTALL IT 2. What is Remote PC Software? Remote PC software, also known as remote access software, allows users to control a computer or network from a remote location. This capability is incredibly useful for IT support teams, enabling them to troubleshoot and fix issues without being physically present. It

The digital age has brought unprecedented convenience, connecting us with people, services, and information at the touch of a button. However, it has also opened doors for cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting individuals through various forms of scams. Whether it’s through email, text messages, or phone calls, scammers have become increasingly sophisticated, making it essential to be vigilant and informed. This blog post will guide you through identifying scam communications and provide practical steps to protect yourself. Understanding the Basics of Scams What is a Scam A scam is a deceptive scheme or trick used to cheat someone out of something, typically money or personal information. Scammers use a variety of tactics to appear legitimate, often mimicking trusted organizations or individuals to gain your trust. Common Types of Scams Phishing: Attempts to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details by disguising as a trustworthy entity in electronic

In today’s digital age, where technology connects us in ways never before imagined, the prevalence of online scams is on the rise. One particularly insidious form of cybercrime gaining traction is sextortion. Sextortion involves blackmailing individuals by threatening to release compromising images or videos unless they pay a ransom. It preys on human vulnerability, exploiting intimate moments captured in the digital realm. However, with awareness and proactive measures, you can protect yourself from falling victim to sextortion scams. In this guide, we’ll delve into the anatomy of sextortion scams, highlight common tactics used by perpetrators, and provide practical steps to protect yourself from sextortion scams. Never Share An Explicit / Naked Photo Of Yourself With Someone You Have Not Met In Person If someone online asks you to share an Explicit / Naked image/photo with them DO NOT DO IT. Understanding Sextortion Sextortion is a form of extortion that typically

Love and romance are beautiful aspects of life that many of us seek, especially in today’s digital age where connections can be made across continents with just a few clicks. However, amidst the sea of genuine relationships, there lurk predators who exploit emotions for financial gain through romance scams. This blog post will delve into the world of romance scams, exploring their tactics, red flags, and most importantly, equipping you with practical strategies to protect yourself from romance scams Understanding Romance Scams Romance scams, also known as sweetheart scams or catfishing, involve individuals creating fake personas to establish romantic relationships with unsuspecting victims. These scammers often operate on online dating platforms, social media, or through email and messaging apps. They employ various tactics to gain trust and manipulate emotions, ultimately leading to requests for money or financial assistance under false pretenses. Types of Romance Scams There are several common types