Protect yourself from fraud

A fake invoice, or an email saying a supplier’s bank details have changed, so your payment goes to the fraudster instead. Before paying new or changed details, call the supplier on a number you already know, not one on the invoice or email.

A message, often from a new number, claiming to be your son, daughter or another relative who has lost their phone and needs money urgently. Call them on the number you already have before sending anything.

Someone you’ve met online, on a dating site or social media, builds a relationship over weeks or months, then asks for money for an emergency, travel or medical bills. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.

People claiming to be the police, HMRC, your bank or a service provider, demanding immediate payment of a fine or tax, or asking you to move money to a “safe account”.

Requests for large deposits or full payment before goods arrive, from suppliers with vague contact details such as a PO Box or premium-rate number.

Promises of high returns with little risk, and pressure to decide quickly.