How to Protect Yourself from Scams and Fraud

Scams and fraud are everywhere these days, and it can sometimes feel like the moment you pick up the phone or check your email, someone is trying to trick you. From fake phone calls claiming you owe money to suspicious emails asking for personal details, these scams are becoming more clever and harder to spot. The good news? You do not have to fall for them. You can protect yourself and keep your personal information safe by learning a few simple tips. This guide will walk you through how to recognise and avoid common scams and fraud so you can stay one step ahead.

Recognising Common Scams and Fraud

There are a few types of scams and fraud you are likely to encounter. Phishing scams involve fake emails or messages designed to trick you into sharing personal details. These might look like they come from a trusted source, like your bank, but they are actually scams and fraud meant to steal your information.

Phone scams are another major form of scams and fraud. Scammers call pretending to be from a legitimate company or government agency, trying to convince you to hand over sensitive information or make a payment. Online shopping scams are also a common type, where you pay for goods that never arrive.

It is important to remember that anyone can be targeted by scams and fraud. Scammers do not discriminate based on age, background, or experience. The important thing is knowing how to spot them when they happen.

How to Stay Safe from Scams and Fraud

One of the simplest ways to protect yourself from scams and fraud is to be cautious with any unsolicited communication. If you receive an unexpected email, message, or phone call asking for personal information or money, take a moment to think. Ask yourself if it seems legitimate. Scammers often use urgency to pressure you, but it is always a good idea to pause, verify, and avoid reacting impulsively to potential scams and fraud.

When in doubt, always check the source to avoid them. If a company contacts you and you are unsure, contact them directly using a phone number or email from their official website. This ensures the request is genuine and helps you avoid falling victim.

Be mindful of where you click, as phishing emails often contain links to fake websites. These sites are set up for scams and fraud to capture your personal information. Always check that you are on an official page before entering sensitive details.

Protecting Your Identity

Identity theft is a serious form of scams and fraud. Scammers may steal your personal details to open accounts or take out loans in your name. To protect yourself, avoid sharing personal information unless absolutely necessary and regularly check your financial accounts for any unusual activity, as this can be an early sign.

A strong password is one of your first defences against scams and fraud. Use unique passwords for each of your accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible to reduce the risk.

Avoid accessing sensitive accounts like your bank on public Wi-Fi, as it can make you more vulnerable to scams and fraud. Public Wi-Fi networks are often less secure, giving scammers a chance to steal your data.

Staying Alert to Red Flags

Sometimes, scams and fraud can be spotted by looking out for common red flags. Scammers may lure you in with offers that seem too good to be true, such as winning a lottery you never entered or receiving a free prize. Be cautious of anything that asks for personal details in exchange for a reward.

Payment requests that seem unusual, such as asking for money via gift cards or wire transfers, are another warning sign. Always use secure payment methods like credit cards, which offer more protection.

What to Do If You Have Been Targeted

If you believe you have been targeted by scams and fraud, it is critical to act quickly. In New Zealand, you can report these incidents to Netsafe or CERT NZ, who can help you take the next steps. Contacting your bank or credit card provider immediately can also help prevent further damage, especially if your financial information has been compromised.

While scams and fraud are becoming more sophisticated, you can take simple steps to protect yourself. Always verify who is contacting you, be sceptical of offers that seem too good to be true, and be cautious when sharing personal information.