How to check
How to block spam calls and texts on your phone
Practical ways to cut down on scam calls and texts, for mobiles, internet phones and landlines, and the one thing blocking cannot do.
The Editors4 min read
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Plain answers about suspicious calls, texts and emails
Code and verification scams
Someone asks you to read back a code from a text. Do not
A buyer, a pet finder or a caller asks for a code texted to your phone. How the Google Voice verification scam works and why you never share a code.
The Editors4 min read
Bank scams
A UAE bank verification message on WhatsApp. Real or not?
A WhatsApp message from a UAE bank asks you to verify your account. Why it is a scam and where to report it.
The Editors3 min read
Government scams
A call says it is HMRC. How do you know it is real?
A call or voicemail claims to be from HMRC about tax or a pension. How to check it against GOV.UK's own list before you say anything or pay.
The Editors4 min read
Family and romance scams
An online friend asks for money. Is it a romance scam?
Someone you met online is warm, attentive and always has a reason they cannot meet. How romance scams work and why you should never send money.
The Editors4 min read
Code and verification scams
Your bank just texted asking for the code they sent you. Never send it.
A message asks you to send back the code your bank just texted. Why that code must never be shared and how the trick works.
The Editors3 min read
How to check
How to report a scam in the UK
Where to report a scam call, text or email in the UK, who to ring first if money has gone, and and the numbers worth saving, 7726, 159 and 0300 123 2040.
The Editors4 min read
How to check
How to report a scam in the United States
Where to report a scam call, text or email in the US, and which first calls to make if money has already left your account. A plain step list.
The Editors4 min read
Payment scams
A text says you owe an unpaid toll. Should you pay?
A text claims you have an unpaid toll balance and a late fee. How the toll text scam works, how to check your real account, and where to report it.
The Editors3 min read