Fraud

Criminals will also use letters and email to send details of investment schemes that will promise substantial returns, but in truth these investments will either not exist or be worthless.

Protect yourself against mail fraud

• Protect personal data in the same way you would your other valuables.
• When disposing of information with personal data ensure it is shredded or burnt.
• Delete unsolicited e-mails without opening, and never open any attachments.
• Keep your computers, tablets and smart phones secure with up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spam software.
• Never provide personal information in response to an unsolicited contact. If it is genuine the caller will be happy that you go away and verify their identity. 

Protect yourself against doorstep fraud

• Always ask for and check identification before letting anyone you don't know into your house.
• If you're interested in the product ask the seller to leave contact details so you can arrange an appointment with their company.
• Don’t sign on the spot – shop around. Get at least 3 written quotes.
• Don’t reveal personal or financial details.
• If you do decide to buy:
  • Ask for references from previous customers.
  • Always get any agreement you make in writing.
  • Ensure you know what the cooling-off period is.
  • Never pay for work before it has been completed, and only then if you're happy with it.

What is Banking Malware?

Malware means malicious software such as viruses and Trojans. Banking Malware is a term used to describe a programme that can embed itself into your computer or your phone to take information about you.

How does it get on to my device?

Malware is often hidden in attachments, free downloads and under links usually on unsafe websites, unwanted emails and texts, infected software and apps and social media posts.

What does it do? 

It remembers which keys you press on your keyboard to steal your passwords and access your online accounts. 

Some malware specifically attacks your internet banking. If this happens you may be asked to provide more information than usual so keep an eye out. In other cases pop-up messages can appear asking you for your online banking details.

Always remember, a genuine financial institution will never ask you to enter your password or memorable information in a pop-up. They will also never ask you to provide your card PIN.

If you suspect anything is wrong, close your browser and report it to both your bank and Action Fraud.

How worried should I be?

Be wary rather than worried. There are some frightening statistics out there but if you take the time to read our top tips you should be safe.

How do I protect my devices?

• Install anti-virus software and update it regularly.
• Think before your download files or programmes. Ask yourself whether you can trust the source and whether the site looks genuine.
• Before making payments online, make sure the webpage is secure. To be sure you’re navigating to a genuine site, type the web address into your browser rather than clicking a link.
• Install updates regularly. Not just for your anti virus software and firewalls but also other key systems such as your operating system (eg Windows), and Internet browser, applications (eg Adobe Acrobat, Java). If any of these programs are out of date your system is vulnerable to an attack.

• Financial Investigation – disrupts and dismantles serious and organised crime by confiscating money obtained through criminal activity. 
• Money laundering – investigates serious and complex cases involving illegally obtained money that criminals try to integrate back into legitimate financial systems. 
• Major Fraud – investigations into large scale or complex fraud cases as well as fraud and corruption within the public and private sector.