ADVICE & SUPPORT
For advice on using passwords to protect devices and data: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/files/Using%20passwords%20to%20protect%20your%2…
For advice on identifying a scam call or message, go to: https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-telecoms-and-internet/advice-for-consumers/scams
To report a suspicious text message, forward the text to 7726 so the mobile phone provider can investigate.
To report a suspicious phone call, or other potential scams, contact Action Fraud at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or by calling 0300 123 2040
You can also report suspicious emails to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) vis their Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS), using report@phishing.gov.uk. More information about their service is available at https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/information/report-suspicious-emails
If you are a business, charity or other organisation which is currently suffering a live cyber attack (in progress), please call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 immediately. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please note, if you are member of the public you must call to report through their core opening hours.
The Cyber Essentials Scheme helps businesses guard against cyber attack, and there is more information at: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberessentials/overview
For other organisations that may be helpful, go to: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/useful-organisations
Citizens Advice also operate an online Scams Action programme, and you can get advice from a Scams Action adviser by calling 0808 250 5050. The service is open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Calls are free from mobiles and landlines. There is more information at https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/get-help-with-online-s…
The Take Five campaign also offers useful information on how to prevent fraud. Go to: https://www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/
VICTIM SUPPORT
If you’ve been affected by crime, Victim Support can give you the help you need to move forward. Their services are free, confidential and available to anyone in England and Wales, regardless of whether the crime has been reported or how long ago it happened. Call their support line on 08 08 16 89 111 or request support online.
Below are two booklets that may also be helpful in understanding Romance Fraud and how to identify the most common scams:
