How to recognise a telephone scam
Look at what a caller wants you to do, not just how convincing the conversation sounds.
Pay attention to the request
An unexpected call deserves extra care when it asks for money, account access, a security code or secrecy. A polished introduction, familiar accent or knowledge of your name does not establish trust. Personal details can be obtained from many sources.
Pressure is a reason to pause. A caller may describe an urgent security problem, a payment deadline or a special opportunity that will disappear if you hang up. The effect is to make verification feel inconvenient. You can end a conversation without proving to the caller that it is suspicious.
Separate the story from the action
Write down what you are being asked to do in plain language. “Move my savings to a new account”, “read out a code”, and “install software that lets someone see my screen” are easier to assess than a long explanation about a supposed investigation.
Do not use an incoming caller’s instructions to check that same caller. If an organisation might genuinely need you, contact it through a route you found independently. A real issue can be discussed again after that check.
Avoid tests that give false reassurance
The displayed number is not proof of origin. A caller passing you to a colleague does not make the call independent. Hearing hold music or receiving a message containing a company logo is also insufficient. Scammers can combine phone calls, texts and websites to make the same story appear in several places.
If the conversation has already happened
Stop following the instructions. If you shared account information or sent money, contact the relevant bank or service provider promptly using a trusted route. Explain exactly what you disclosed or authorised; it helps them decide what protection is needed.
Keep messages, call times and transaction references somewhere private. A public community report can warn others, but should not include those sensitive details. Follow our guide to reporting fraud for the appropriate official route.
Make a personal rule
A simple rule can remove pressure: never act on an unexpected money or security request during the original call. End the call, check independently, and decide with time on your side.
Sources & further reading
For a situation involving money already sent, contact your bank promptly using contact details you trust.
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