Phishing is when fraudsters use sneaky tactics to get hold of your personal details, often by pretending to be a company or organisation you trust. They might send you an email that looks like it’s from your bank, or a text message that seems to be from a reputable company.
These fraudsters are after things like:
· Your bank account details
· Passwords
· Credit card numbers
· Personal information like your date of birth
They might try to scare you into action by saying there’s a problem with your account, or tempt you with a too-good-to-be-true offer. The goal is to get you to click on a dodgy link, download a harmful file, or hand over your information.
It’s called “phishing” because the fraudsters are fishing for your information, casting out their bait and hoping you’ll bite.
Key Facts:
· 32 million phishing emails reported
· 329,000+ malicious websites removed
· 44% increase in reports from 2022 to 2023
· 60,000+ dodgy websites taken down in March 2024 alone
Remember, if something seems fishy, it probably is!
· Be wary of unexpected emails or texts asking for personal info
· Don’t click suspicious links or download unknown attachments
· Check sender details carefully – fraudsters often pose as trusted organisations
· If unsure, contact the company directly using their official website
For further fraud advice, or to arrange a free police fraud and cybercrime talk for your local community group, club or organisation, email tara.cooksammy@northants.police.uk or stephen.sangster@northants.police.uk
Report Suspicious Activity:
· Suspicious emails: Forward to report@phishing.gov.uk
· Suspicious texts: Forward to 7726 (it’s free!)
Remember: Your bank will NEVER ask for sensitive details via email or text.
Stay alert, stay safe!
