Beware of Scammers! How to Stay Safe

More and more often, criminals target older people with scams. They take advantage of trust and kindness to steal money, personal details, or access to bank accounts. It is important to know how they work and how to protect yourself.

The Most Common Scams

1. “Grandchild in trouble” or “Police officer” – someone calls and pretends to be a family member or a police officer. They claim there has been an accident and money is urgently needed.

2. Fake bank employee – a caller asks for your password, a text message code, or to install a special app.

3. Suspicious SMS or emails – messages about “extra payment for a parcel,” “tax refund,” or “account blocked.” Clicking the link steals your details.

4. Unexpected visitors at the door – someone pretending to be from the gas, water, or social services wanting to enter your home.

   
   

How to Protect Yourself

• Never share passwords or SMS codes over the phone.

• Do not click suspicious links. Go directly to the official bank or government website.

• Never hand cash to strangers. Real police or bank staff will never collect money from you.

• Always double-check. Call your grandchild, son, or daughter before believing any “accident” story.

• Do not feel pressured to let strangers in. Real workers carry ID, and you can always verify by phone.

  
  

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam

• Hang up the phone immediately.

• Call your family and explain what happened.

• Report it to the police by dialling 112 (or 999 in the UK).

• If it concerns your bank, call the bank directly using the number on your card – not the one in the suspicious message.

👉 Remember: Scammers are clever, but they all want one thing – your money. Do not rush, always check, and never trust people who pressure you.