Could You Spot a Financial Scam? Simple Ways to Help Keep Your Money Safe

Could You Spot a Financial Scam? Simple Ways to Help Keep Your Money Safe

16 October 26

 

Scams are becoming increasingly convincing. 

An unexpected text about a payment, an email that looks like it comes from a company you know, or a phone call asking you to confirm some information. 

When something looks genuine, it can be difficult to know when to trust it and when to stop and check. 

Cyber Security Month is a useful reminder that you don't need to be a cyber security expert to take some simple steps to help protect yourself, your personal information and your money. 

 

Be cautious if you weren't expecting it 

If someone contacts you unexpectedly and asks you to make a payment, provide information or take action, give yourself time to think. 

Don't assume a message is genuine simply because it appears to come from a person or organisation you recognise.

 

Don't let anyone rush you 

Creating urgency can be used to encourage people to act before they've had time to think. 

If you're being told you need to make a payment or provide information immediately, stop and check first. 

A genuine organisation should understand you wanting to make sure a request is legitimate. 

 

Think before you click 

Take care with links and attachments in unexpected emails and messages. Scammers can also fake voices and use convincing QR codes, so don't assume something is genuine just because it looks or sounds familiar. 

Rather than following a link you've been sent, consider going directly to the organisation's website or contacting them through details you already know, such as its official website or your statements. 

 

Keep personal information personal 

Be careful about sharing passwords, PINs or other security information, particularly when someone has contacted you unexpectedly. 

If you're unsure why information is being requested, stop and check. 

Conister will never ask you for your full password or PIN, or ask you to move money to an unknown account. 

 

Trust your instincts 

Sometimes there isn't one obvious warning sign, it can be that something simply doesn't feel quite right. 

Listen to that instinct.  

Contact the organisation independently using contact details you know are genuine, such as its official website or your statements. Taking a few extra minutes to check could make all the difference.

 

Stop and check 

We all lead busy lives, and scammers can take advantage of moments when we're distracted or under pressure. 

You don't need to know every type of scam, but building a few simple habits into the way you deal with unexpected financial requests can help you stay safer. 

Take your time, think before you click and if you're not sure, stop and check. 

 

If you think you’ve been targeted, contact Conister straight away using the number on our website. You can also report cyber security concerns through the Cyber Security Centre for the Isle of Man's Reporting Form.

Back to all news