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Scams & Fraud Awareness

Fraudsters are getting smarter all the time. As technology moves forward, so do the tricks criminals use to try and steal your money. At Plum, we work hard to help protect you — but staying alert is one of the best things you can do to keep your money safe.


Below, we'll walk you through the most common types of scams, what to watch out for, and simple steps you can take to protect yourself.


If you think you've been targeted by fraud or a scam, get in touch with us straight away.


What's the difference between fraud and a scam?

Fraud is when someone makes a transaction using your account without your knowledge or permission — you didn't authorise it and you didn't make it.

A scam is when you're tricked into sending money to a criminal yourself. This is sometimes called an Authorised Push Payment (APP) scam. Scammers are incredibly convincing — they might pretend to be your bank, a friend, a retailer, or even a government body. They'll use emails, calls, and texts that look and sound completely real.


Common types of scams

  • Bank or payment provider impersonation – Someone contacts you claiming to be from your bank or payment provider (or even the police), telling you there's suspicious activity on your account. They'll pressure you to move your money to a 'safe' account — which is actually theirs.
  • Investment scams – You're offered an incredible investment opportunity, often in something that doesn't actually exist. If the returns sound too good to be true, they almost certainly are.
  • Romance scams – A scammer builds a fake relationship with you online, earning your trust over time before asking you to send them money.
  • Fake marketplace listings – An item is listed for sale on an online marketplace, but once you pay, the product never arrives — or what turns up is nothing like what was advertised.
  • Fake job offers – You're offered a great-sounding job, but before you can start, you're asked to pay upfront for training, equipment, or background checks. Once you pay, the 'employer' disappears.
  • Cryptocurrency scams – Scammers take advantage of the buzz around crypto to lure you into 'get rich quick' schemes or fake trading platforms.

How to keep yourself safe

  • Be wary of unexpected contact from anyone claiming to be in a position of authority.
  • Always verify someone's identity through an independent source — don't just trust the details they give you.
  • Never transfer money unless you're completely sure you know who you're sending it to.
  • Never share your passwords, PINs, or security details with anyone. We'll never ask you for these.
  • If you get a cold call, look up the organisation's number independently and call them back.
  • Research any investment opportunity thoroughly. If you're unsure, speak to Trading Standards.
  • Watch out for shoulder surfing — shield your screen when entering passwords or PINs, and be alert to anyone watching or trying to distract you.
  • Check your accounts regularly for anything that doesn't look right. If you spot something suspicious, let us know immediately.
  • Always log out of your online banking properly — use the log out button rather than just closing the browser or app.
  • Stick to secure websites — look for 'https' in the address bar and the closed padlock icon.

You can also check the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) register at register.fca.org.uk to make sure any firm or individual you're dealing with is properly authorised.


Red flags to watch out for

  • The deal sounds too good to be true — it usually is.
  • You've received an unsolicited email or message out of the blue. Trust your gut — if something feels off, stop and question it.
  • There are spelling mistakes or odd formatting in emails and messages.
  • You're being pressured to 'act now' or face consequences.
  • You're asked to open an attachment or click on a suspicious link.
  • You're promised returns on investments that are wildly above the market average.

Think you've been targeted?

If you suspect you've fallen victim to fraud or a scam, please get in touch with us as soon as possible. The quicker you act, the better chance we have of helping you.


Helpful resources

TakeFive — To Stop Fraud

FCA ScamSmart — Avoid investment and pension scams

Fraud Focus — GOV.UK newsletter

The Little Book of Big Scams — Met Police