Fraud

Scams

A scam is a scheme to trick you or another out of money. Other terms people use to describe scams are:

  • swindle
  • fiddle
  • racket
  • stratagem

There are many different types of scams currently operating in the UK and they can arrive by:

  • post
  • phone call
  • text message
  • email
  • someone coming to your home

Protect yourself and others from becoming victims of scamming, by increasing your awareness of common types of scams.

Scams are real crimes aimed to cause financial damage and distress to both individuals and businesses.

Be aware of individuals who may be impersonating Harrow Council employees.

Find out more about Impersonations scams and for further guidance on how to identify fraudsters tricks and scams visit GOV.UK.

Learn about types of scams

For information on the different types of scams and further consumer information please visit the Citizens’ Advice Bureau or contact us:

Think Jessica

For real life cases of scams to get the victims’ perspective, and to understand the real damage scams can cause visit: Think Jessica

Report a scam online

If you think you've been the victim of a scam, or want to report a scam you think is taking place then there are many organisations which include:

If you think you have been scammed you can report it to Action Fraud online (button below) or by phone on 0300 123 2040.

Report a scam online