Sadly, there is much evidence that fraudsters are taking advantage of Covid-19 and the number of scams increased in 2020 and continues to rise.
Scammers are also getting more sophisticated, particularly when it comes to targeting online and through mobile devices, scam topics include fake payment requests for Covid-19 vaccines or NHS Track & Trace requests for bank details to verify identity.
Scammers will target anyone but especially those who are vulnerable, and they use many sophisticated, opportunistic ways to get hold of your money or sensitive information.
Of particular concern to our clients are scams relating to insurance policies, fictitious tax refunds, pension transfers and offers of high risk investments.
To avoid falling victim to a scam, we suggest you:
- Reject offers that come out of the blue.
- Beware of paid for/sponsored adverts on social media channels and online.
- Beware of investments that appear to be too good be true. You could lose all your money.
- Before making an investment, use the FCA Register and Warning List to check who you are dealing with.
- Avoid being rushed or pressured into making a decision.
- Call back existing providers who call you unexpectedly on the number on their official website
- Not give out personal details (bank details, PIN for your card, email address, password, address or existing insurance/pensions/investment details).
If you believe that someone from Temple Wealth has made contact with you, we encourage you to check that it is actually us and if you have received unanticipated messages, emails or calls please contact Temple on the telephone number that you would normally dial regardless of any new details contained within an email.
If you believe that you have been scammed or your email address compromised it is imperative that you contact us straight away so that we can prevent any unwitting transactions, please contact your usual adviser who will confirm your identity using the contact details we hold for you.
To report a potential scam please call Action Fraud straight away on 0300 123 2040, or the FCA Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768. you can also visit https://www.fca.org.uk/scamsmart/warning-list?gclid=CjwKCAiAxp-ABhALEiwAXm6IyURFB_FapxyUlONE-0j_6O2ohZJ-qFrNh45-phFwyS9W0oW6Wk7h2xoCQtgQAvD_BwE
Please help us to help you keep your finances safe.
Greg Holden, IFA, Temple Wealth Management