12 Christmas Scams compiled by National Fraud Authority, U.K
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They should look out for such dangers as credit and debit card fraud (including cash machine fraud) and rogue doorstep sellers, according to three of Britain’s leading anti-fraud organisations.
The National Fraud Authority (NFA), the UK Cards Association and the City of London Police have compiled the following list of the top 12 scams:
1. Shopping and online auction fraud (counterfeit goods and websites)
2. Credit and debit card fraud (including cash machine fraud)
3. Scam ticket websites
4. Lottery, prize draw and sweepstake scams
5. Identity fraud and theft
6. Phishing emails, which aim to trick recipients into visiting fake websites and entering personal or bank details
7. Scam letters (usually from west Africa or eastern Europe)
8. Loan scams
9. Premium phone line scams
10. High-value item scams (offering shares, gemstones and fine wine, for example)
11. Rogue doorstep sellers
12. Slimming and miracle cures.
For full definitions, see the table below.
As research from IMRG suggests that more than 90pc of people plan to purchase Christmas gifts online this year, opportunistic online fraudsters are busy phishing for their next victims. However, the threat is not only on the web, the NFA said, as the high streets were also a “fraudster’s paradise”.
“Criminals take advantage of those distracted by Christmas festivities: cash machine users and revellers hitting bars and pubs are prime targets for ’shoulder surfers’ and ‘card cloners’,” the organisation said. “Those undertaking last minute home repairs fall foul of bogus traders, while people buying tickets for special events or dieting during the holidays are also on the fraudster’s Christmas shopping list.”
Bernard Herdan, the head of the NFA, said: “One of the greatest barriers we have in educating people about fraud is the stigma associated with it. Fraud is not a victimless crime. In some cases it destroys lives.” He added: “Listen to the warnings. Be aware. Once you are defrauded, your personal details can end up on a ’suckers list’. They can then be traded on the internet.
“One simple ground rule is always to consider your card details as cash. In the hands of criminals it makes no difference. Another key rule is: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Katy Worobec of the UK Cards Association said: “More than 32m of us now shop online, and we all need to work together in the fight against fraud. Consumers can play their part by regularly updating their computer’s antivirus systems, looking for the padlock on sites when online and registering with card protection initiatives such as Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode.”
More tips can be found at www.financialfraudaction.org.uk, she added.
The City of London Police reminded people to protect their personal identity number (PINs) when using ATMs or when paying by credit or debit card in restaurants, bars and clubs. Its warning came as part of an continuing operation to combat “shoulder surfers” – criminals who loiter near cash machines trying to note PINs and steal wallets and handbags, hoping to empty bank accounts before the victim realises.
Detective Superintendent Bob Wishart of the City of London Police said: “Criminals involved in this ’shoulder surfing’ target busy bars where it is easier to operate undetected. We are making arrests to stop those involved. However, we know that this problem is widespread and that thieves will be looking to take advantage of the Christmas season as the bars and clubs get busier.
“People should take simple measures: make sure you always cover your PIN number, and keep your wallet or purse safe. I can assure you that criminals are patient. They will wait for the opportune time to steal your wallet or handbag. It only takes a second.”
