Stay informed about the latest scams

We track the latest scams and share what you need to know in plain English

Tactics Scammers Use Most

You don't need to know every scam. Learning a few common tactics can help you recognise when something doesn't feel right.

They want you to act quickly

Scammers create urgency so you don't have time to stop and think

They want your personal details

They may ask for passwords, bank details or security codes. Always be cautious.

The offer seems too good to be true

Unexpected prizes, investments and special offers are common scam tactics.

Four scams we see most often

Each scam follows a pattern. Once you know what to look for, they're much easier to spot.

Elderly woman in a navy polka-dot blouse using a tablet with a background of green leaves.

Banking

Recent scam alerts

The latest scams we've added — updated as new patterns emerge.

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Bank Impersonation Scam

Criminals call posing as your bank, creating urgency to make you hand over details or move money — but a genuine bank will always give you time to check.

HMRC Tax Refund Emails

Emails claiming you are owed a tax refund look official but lead to fake login pages designed to steal your personal details — HMRC will never email you asking you to click a link to claim a refund.

Purchase Fraud — Paying for Goods That Never Arrive

Purchase fraud is the most common type of fraud in the UK — accounting for nearly three quarters of all cases — and online marketplaces are the main hunting ground.

AI-Powered Scams — When Technology Makes Fraud Harder to Spot

Scammers are now using artificial intelligence to make their messages more convincing — removing the spelling mistakes and poor grammar that once gave them away.

Investment and Romance Scams — The Most Devastating Frauds

Investment and romance scams are rising fast and can result in life-changing losses — often because victims are gradually won over before any money is mentioned.

Bank Transfer Scams — When You Are Tricked Into Sending the Money Yourself

Scammers are increasingly tricking people into transferring money directly from their own account — and losses average over £2,300 per victim.

Remote Purchase Card Fraud

Fraudsters are using stolen card details to buy goods online without ever touching your physical card — and cases are rising sharply.

Sneaky Subscription Scams

Free trials and competitions on social media can hide recurring charges that are very difficult to cancel — and easy to miss until real damage is done.

Swap Fraud — Scammers Stealing Your Phone Number

Fraudsters can transfer your mobile number to a SIM card they control — giving them access to your bank accounts and online logins.

Common questions

Find answers to common questions about our alerts and how to stay safe

How are alerts created?

We monitor scam activity across the UK and gather reports from trusted sources. When we spot a new threat, our team verifies the details and writes clear guidance in plain English so you know exactly what to watch for.

What should I do if I think I've been scammed?

Stop contact with the scammer immediately and do not send any more money. Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit actionfraud.police.uk. If you've given your bank details, contact your bank straight away.

How do I report a scam to Lightkeepers?

You can contact us through our website or call us directly. Your report helps us understand what's happening and warn others in your community. We take every report seriously.

What if I'm not sure it's a scam?

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. We're here to help you work through it. Call us or send a message with details and we'll give you honest advice.

How often are alerts updated?

We add new alerts regularly as scams emerge and change. Subscribe to Letters from the Lighthouse to get weekly updates delivered to your inbox so you're always informed.