Stay safe this Christmas
a calm, gentle guide for parents & grandparents
- 1
Fake delivery texts and emails
Parcel messages spike at Christmas. Do not tap the link. Open the courier's own app, or type their website yourself.
Safe rule: open the courier's own app or website
- 2
Gift cards are never a way to pay
No bank, tax office, tech company or relative can ask you to pay with gift cards. Anyone who does is a scammer.
Red flag: anyone asking for gift cards
- 3
"Hi Mum, this is my new number"
Call your child on the number you already have before sending money or codes.
Safe rule: ring their old number directly
- 4
Deals that look too good
A top gadget at half price on a shop you have never heard of is probably fake. Check the web address and read reviews elsewhere.
Safe rule: stick to shops you already know
- 5
Fake charities
Give through the charity's own website, not through a caller or a link someone sent you.
Safe rule: give directly to a known charity
- 6
Codes and passwords stay secret
Nobody real asks you to read out a code sent to your phone. Not the bank. Not the police.
Golden rule: codes are for your eyes only
- 7
Pressure is the warning sign
"Act now", "last chance", "your account will be closed". Real companies give you time to think and to call back.
Safe rule: take your time, call back later
- 8
If you already clicked or paid
Do not be embarrassed. Call your bank straight away, using the number on your card, and tell a family member. Speed matters.
First step: call the number on your bank card
Got a suspicious message? Check it for warning signs
General guidance only. If you have lost money, contact your bank and your national fraud reporting service.