29/08/2025
Online Threats You Should Know About – and How to Protect Yourself
Good day everyone,
Online scams and digital fraud are becoming more sophisticated every month. Criminals are finding new ways to trick people into giving away money or personal information. Below I’ve listed some of the most dangerous and common threats at the moment, how to recognise them, and most importantly, how to stay one step ahead.
1️⃣ Phishing Emails & Text Messages
What happens:
You receive a message that looks like it’s from your bank, HMRC, Royal Mail, Amazon, or even Netflix. The message usually claims there’s a problem (like an account issue or missed payment) and asks you to click a link or download an attachment.
Red flags:
- Urgent language like “Your account will be suspended today!”
- Slightly odd spelling, grammar, or formatting.
- Links that don’t match the official website (hover over the link to check).
How to protect yourself:
- Never click links in unexpected messages.
- Go directly to the official website or app.
Report suspicious emails to [email protected]
(UK service).
2️⃣ Fake Delivery Notifications
What happens:
A text or email tells you a parcel is waiting, but you need to “pay a small fee” to release it. This often pretends to be from Royal Mail, Evri, or DPD.
Red flags:
- You weren’t expecting a parcel.
- The link doesn’t take you to the courier’s proper website.
How to protect yourself:
- Ignore unless you know a parcel is on the way.
- If in doubt, check with the courier company directly (using their official website).
3️⃣ Bank & Investment Scams
What happens:
You may get a call from someone claiming to be your bank’s fraud team.
Or you see an online ad for a “guaranteed high-return investment”.
Criminals might even spoof real phone numbers to appear genuine.
Red flags:
- Pressure to act quickly (“Transfer money now to protect it”).
- Requests for PINs, passwords, or verification codes.
- Promises of returns that sound too good to be true.
How to protect yourself:
- Hang up immediately.
- Call your bank back on the official number printed on your card.
Remember:
banks will never ask you to move money to another account to “keep it safe” and never ask you for your full pin/pasword.
4️⃣ Smart Device & Wi-Fi Attacks
What happens:
Hackers try to break into poorly protected smart home devices (doorbells, cameras, heating controls, even lightbulbs) or into Wi-Fi networks that don’t have strong security.
Red flags:
- Devices behaving strangely (turning on/off, making noises).
- Your Wi-Fi suddenly running much slower than usual.
How to protect yourself:
- Change the default password on all smart devices.
- Use long, unique Wi-Fi passwords or pass-phrases where possible.
- Keep devices and routers updated with the latest firmware.
5️⃣ Social Media Scams
What happens:
Posts or messages offering free vouchers, cheap deals, or investment schemes.
Fake accounts pretending to be friends or local groups.
Red flags:
- Requests to “share quickly” or “act now”.
- Links that ask for login details.
How to protect yourself:
- Be sceptical of giveaways or unbelievable deals.
- Double-check friend requests or messages before replying.
✅ Golden Rules to Keep in Mind
- Pause before clicking: If it feels urgent or threatening, stop and think.
- Check the sender: Hover over links or verify the phone number.
Stranger danger applies online too:
Don’t share personal details with people or companies you don’t know.
Keep devices updated:
Phones, computers, and smart gadgets need regular updates to patch security holes.
Use strong passwords:
At least 12 characters, with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
🚨 If You’ve Been Caught Out
Don’t panic — it happens to many people.
Take action quickly:
- Contact your bank immediately if you’ve given out details or transferred money.
- Change your passwords if you clicked on a suspicious link.
Report the scam to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) or online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk
By staying informed and looking out for one another, we make it much harder for criminals to succeed. If you ever receive something suspicious, share it here so others are warned too.
Also, don't be afraid to ask me directly if I use "cryptical" language or terms you don't understand. I am aware that my language might be too technical for some. I really would like to hear back from you if you run into any kind of trouble following my advisories.
If you need help securing your devices, computers or you home network, please give me a shout. I am more than happy to help.
Stay safe,
Axel
National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre
