General tips to avoid scams and fraud (from Age UK)

Last Updated OnMarch 26, 2020

Don’t rush into anything. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Do your research. Make sure a company is reputable by checking for a contact number and postal address and membership of a trade association.
Know who’s on your doorstep. Check before you open your door, and don’t feel bad about asking someone to leave if you don’t know them. If someone refuses to leave, you can call the police.
Be wise to cold call scams. Ignore unsolicited invitations such as letters, emails or phone calls offering a brilliant investment or saying you’ve won a lottery.
Be aware of new pension scams. New rules allowing people to access their pension pots from age 55 have created opportunities for new scams. Be cautious of anyone claiming to know about loopholes, talks about overseas investments or says you can get your money before age 55.
Report it. Don’t feel embarrassed or ashamed if a scam happens to you. Unfortunately it’s much more common than people think. Contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 to report it and get help.