Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Andrew Griffin

Scams are evolving – here’s how to stay safe

Scams are evolving. Criminals have long been finding new ways to target vulnerable people – but in today’s world, they also have the access, resources, and anonymity of the internet.

As a result, any of us can be targeted by a scam at any time. Scammers can pose as debt relief, banks, and loved ones to convince us to share sensitive information or send money.

Almost £9.5 billion is stolen every year, with 1 in 5 people becoming victims of scams, though many stay silent because of stigma and fear of judgement. Often, the people who think they’re most immune are the ones who can be the easiest targets.

Fortunately, there are just as many ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe as there are ways to be tricked. By recognising the signs and staying vigilant, we can make the world safer for ourselves, our relatives, and our communities.

In this second video in our Cyber Smart series, presented in collaboration with security firm Bitdefender, we explain the steps to take to make sure you’re better protected – and how we could help stop them in the future.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.