Fraud

Fraud and scams: What’s the difference?

Fraud is a crime. It happens when someone lies or tricks you to gain money, information or another benefit. It can happen face to face or remotely, such as online, by email or over the phone.

A scam is one type of fraud. It is the method or trick used to fool someone.

You can think of it this way:

Fraud is the crime.

A scam is one way of committing that crime.

Types of fraud

Fraud can take place in person, remotely, or through a mix of both.

Fraud in person

This includes using stolen documents, stealing bank cards or copying card details in shops. It can also involve someone watching you enter your PIN, or someone coming to your door pretending to be an official or a trader. Fake printed event tickets sold in person are another example.

Remote fraud

Remote fraud happens without face to face contact. It includes fake emails pretending to be from trusted organisations, scam text messages, and fraudulent calls claiming to be from banks or HMRC. Criminals may run investment scams, romance scams, or create fake online marketplace listings. “Subscription traps” are also common, where a free trial turns into a costly contract without clear warning.

Fraud using both physical and online methods

Some frauds start in person and continue online, or the other way around. This includes identity theft, impersonation, social engineering (manipulating someone to gain trust), and fraudulent credit or loan applications.

How to protect yourself

Staying safe in person

Keep important documents secure and only carry what you need. Shred papers that contain personal details. When using a bank card, cover your PIN and keep the card in sight.

Do not let unknown visitors into your home. If someone claims to be from a company or authority, check their identity by contacting the organisation directly using an official phone number.

If buying event tickets in person, only use authorised sellers. In workplaces, employers should use proper checks and controls to reduce the risk of internal fraud.

Staying safe from remote fraud

Be cautious with unexpected emails, text messages or online messages. Check the sender, avoid clicking links and delete anything suspicious.

Never share passwords, bank details or one time passcodes over the phone. If you receive an unexpected call, hang up and contact the organisation using a trusted number.

Use strong passwords and turn on two factor authentication where possible. Take your time, fraudsters often try to create pressure or urgency.

Do not send money to people you have not met. Be wary of investment offers promising “guaranteed” returns. Never allow remote access to your device unless you have contacted a verified support service.

When using online marketplaces, pay through secure in app systems and avoid bank transfers. Read the terms carefully before signing up to a free trial or subscription.

Where to report fraud in the UK

Different types of fraud should be reported to different organisations. In the UK, four main bodies help with fraud issues.

Report Fraud (National Fraud Reporting Service)

This is the national centre for reporting fraud and cybercrime.

Website: https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/

Call 999 if the crime is happening now or the suspect is nearby.

Call 101 for non emergency fraud matters.

Your bank or financial provider

If your money or account is affected, contact your bank immediately.

Trading Standards

Trading Standards deal with issues such as doorstep crime, rogue traders and consumer scams. These can be reported through Citizens Advice.

Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Telephone: 0808 223 1133

Other organisations may be involved depending on the situation, such as HMRC, DVLA or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Reporting different types of fraud

Identity fraud involving physical documents should be reported to Report Fraud, the police if the items were stolen, and the organisation that issued the documents.

Card fraud and cheque fraud should be reported to your bank first, then to Report Fraud.

Doorstep crime should be reported to the police, Trading Standards and, where relevant, Report Fraud.

Suspicious emails can be forwarded to: report@phishing.gov.uk

Suspicious text messages can be forwarded to: 7726

Phone scams, account takeovers, romance scams and investment scams should all be reported to Report Fraud and any affected financial provider.

If a payment has been redirected by criminals, contact your bank immediately. Acting quickly can help when trying to recover funds.

Marketplace scams should be reported to the platform involved and to Report Fraud.

Subscription traps can be raised with your bank, Trading Standards and Report Fraud.

Identity theft, impersonation, social engineering and fraudulent credit applications should be reported to Report Fraud, your bank and any relevant credit agencies or government departments.