Don’t let the scammers con you. Follow these tips to avoid getting tricked out of your money.

Be sceptical

Beware of extravagant promises. Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to bin it, delete it or hang up.

Take your time

Scammers don’t like to give you time to think. They will try to pressure you into making a decision by telling you that if you don’t act now, you’ll miss out. Resist any pressure to make a decision right away. Consider asking a friend or family member for advice, or even an accountant or solicitor if big sums of money are involved.

Know who you’re dealing with

Be suspicious if you’re contacted out of the blue by someone you’ve never heard of. This is often a clear warning sign that it’s a scam. And don’t be fooled by official looking websites and marketing materials. Scammers are very good at making their scams look authentic.

Protect your financial information

Never give your bank account details and passwords to someone you don’t know. Trustworthy firms will never contact you to ask for this information.

Report suspected scams

If you suspect a scam, report it online at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/scams

It’ll provide vital information to the Office of Fair Trading and local authority trading standards services so they can take action to stop scams that are causing widespread harm.

Ask for help

If you think you’ve been caught by a scam, don’t let embarrassment or fear stop you asking for help. Millions of people are taken in every year. Call Consumer Direct for advice on 08454 04 05 06.

For more tips and to report scams you’ve spotted, go to www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/scams