Staying Safe from Impersonation Scams Online

What is an impersonation scam?

An impersonation scam is when someone pretends to be a person or organisation you trust. It could be a bank, the police, a delivery company, or even someone from your family or friend group. But they are not who they say they are. They are pretending to get your money or personal information.

They might send a message that sounds serious or urgent. The goal is to make you panic and act quickly without thinking.

Why does this matter to young people?

Scammers do not just target adults. Teenagers can be contacted through messages, emails, phone calls or DMs. Sometimes the scammer says someone you care about is in trouble. Other times they pretend to be an official or a friend who needs help.

It is designed to confuse you or make you feel sorry for them, so you do what they ask.

How to spot an impersonation scam

Here are some warning signs to look out for:

• Someone asks for money and says it is an emergency.
• A message claims to be from the bank or the police and tells you to move money.
• They tell you not to talk to anyone else about it.
• They say you need to act fast and not wait.
• They ask for payment using gift cards or strange apps.
• They tell you to install a programme or app to help them.

If you notice any of these things stop and ask an adult you trust.

What you can do to stay safe

• Take a moment and pause before doing anything.
• Do not let anyone rush you.
• Ask a trusted adult if you are not sure.
• Never keep secrets about messages or money.
• Never send money to someone you have not met in real life.
• Avoid clicking on links or downloading anything unless you are sure it is safe.
• Use strong passwords and do not share them with anyone not even friends.
• Contact the person they are impersonating.

What to do if a scam has already happened

If you have already replied to a scam or sent money.

• Tell your bank or payment provider straight away.
• Keep any messages names or phone numbers used by the scammer.
• Report the scam at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
• Speak to a trusted adult. You are not in trouble. You did the right thing by telling someone.

Good to know

In the UK banks may refund people who have been scammed. This can be up to eighty-five thousand pounds. But only if the scam is reported quickly and you tried your best to stay safe.

The best way to protect yourself is to talk about these scams learn how they work and always ask for help if something feels wrong.

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