IT FEELS like I receive a seemingly genuine text or email most days that – on closer inspection – is a fraudster trying to extract either my personal information or my hard-earned cash. Recent research shows that I’m not alone, with the cost-of-living crisis prompting even more scammers to crawl out of the woodwork to prey on those looking at ways to save or make ends meet. The good news is help is at hand and there are ways to protect yourself against fraud.
A recent survey carried out by Fidelity International1 showed that 70% of UK adults were experiencing more financial scam attempts. 55% of these have seen the number of attempted scams they receive via email rise over the last six months, followed by 46% by text message or social media and 44% for phone calls.
Understandably, it’s something that’s weighing heavily on people’s minds with almost two out of three people saying they’re worried about being targeted themselves and just over half being worried about their family and friends.
What’s more, 31% said they were unsure they’d know what to do if they were targeted by a scam. While knowledge of organisations such as Citizens Advice was high at 93%, only 32% had heard of the FCA’s ScamSmart campaign, which is designed to protect consumers against pension and investment scams.
Knowledge is your best defence
Your security is a priority for us here at Fidelity and there are things that we’re doing…
