Is this a scam?

Need help? Call Joe: 07590 531926

A message says your parcel is waiting, your bank account is at risk or your computer has a virus. It looks convincing—but should you trust it?

The most useful first step is to pause. You don’t have to act just because a message sounds urgent.

Check through a different route

If a message claims to come from your bank, delivery company or another organisation, open its usual app or use a website address you already know. You can also call a number from your bank card, statement or other trusted paperwork.

Avoid using the link or telephone number supplied in the suspicious message. That could take you straight back to the person trying to deceive you.

The same applies to messages from friends and family. An unexpected request for money deserves a call to their usual number—even if the message sounds like them.

Things that should make you stop and check

Be cautious when someone:

Pressures you to act immediately or keep something secret.
Asks for a password, security code or approval of an unexpected sign-in.
Wants you to move money to a “safe account”.
Asks you to install software so they can control your computer.
Changes payment details unexpectedly.
Offers a prize, refund or bargain you weren’t expecting.

Good spelling, a familiar logo and a displayed caller number do not prove something is genuine. AI can also help criminals create convincing messages, pictures and voices.

What about a virus warning on screen?

A webpage claiming your computer is infected is not necessarily a genuine security alert. Don’t call the number it displays or install the software it recommends.

Close the page. If it won’t close normally, ask for help rather than following its instructions.

“I’ve already clicked—what now?”

Clicking alone does not automatically mean your money or accounts have been stolen. What happened next matters.

If you entered a password, change it through the genuine service, using a trusted device. Change it elsewhere if you reused it, and review account security and signed-in devices.

If you shared bank details, approved a payment or transferred money, contact your bank immediately through its official app or a trusted number.

If you installed software or allowed remote access, disconnect the affected device from the internet and get help. Use another trusted device to contact your bank or secure accounts.

Report it

Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and suspicious texts to 7726.

If you have lost money or an account has been compromised, use the official reporting guidance below. Reporting a suspicious message is not a substitute for contacting your bank promptly.