This new quiz tests whether you can identify fake or legitimate adverts as Millenials and Gen Z found to be the most likely to fall victim to scams
Are you scam-savvy or could you be easily duped? Take this quiz to find out if you can distinguish between what’s legit and what’s a con.
A survey of 2,000 adults showed that those under 27 are also vulnerable to online shopping scams, with one in five Millennials admitting they’ve been scammed by phishing scams via email or text.
Virgin Money commissioned the research, and their head of fraud, Gareth Pindred, has warned that scam attempts are at an all-time high in our digital age.
Gareth cautions that these deceptions are constantly evolving, with scammers exploiting current events to make their schemes less noticeable.
“People can get complacent with things like shopping online because they think they’re savvy enough to spot a scam, but that’s not always the case,” he warns.
Despite efforts to stay safe by avoiding dodgy links, keeping an eye on bank activity, and creating strong, unique passwords, people still find themselves victims of scammers.
Research has revealed that Millennials have been hit hardest – losing an average of £150 each time. Gen Z follow closely behind, losing around £141. This has left a third feeling embarrassed and ashamed, particularly those who believed they were adept at spotting scams.
Can you spot the scam give-aways in this quiz?
A worrying four in 10 have been contacted by someone posing as a bank or government official, and there has been a noticeable increase in scam attempts over the past year, especially in the run-up to Christmas.
Three quarters of respondents reported that almost every scam they encounter is now online, but a small percentage are becoming increasingly concerned about being contacted by people impersonating friends and family asking for money.
Money influencer Chloe Carmichael, 32, from Glasgow fell victim to a scam during a trip to Rome earlier this year.
Despite researching common scams in the city beforehand, she was conned out of 50 euros after purchasing a watercolour painting that a vendor claimed to have painted himself.
It later transpired that the images were actually prints that had been painted over with a cheap watercolour set to give the illusion that he was painting them on the spot.
Chloe commented: “This shows just how easy it is to fall victim to scams no matter how financially or digitally savvy you are.”
“I’m a money influencer so I’m very conscious of how I spend my money and very aware of scams, but this person seemed honest and unfortunately their deception worked on this occasion.”
“I was apprehensive to post a video on my social media about the scam, but several people shared that it happened to them too.”
“Others mentioned they’re grateful for the video and that they were aware of this scam before their next holiday, so I’m glad I shared my experience to help others avoid it happening to them.
Expert advice to avoid getting caught out:
1. Never disclose security details, such as your PIN, full banking password or one-time passcode to anyone, even bank staff. A genuine bank or organisation will never ask you for these on the phone.
2. Don’t assume an email, text or phone call is authentic. Just because someone knows your basic details (such as your name and address or even your mother’s maiden name), it doesn’t mean they are genuine. Remember, criminals can also make any telephone number appear on your phone handset so even if you recognise it or it seems authentic, do not use it as verification they are genuine.
3. Don’t be rushed – a genuine organisation won’t mind waiting. Under no circumstances would a genuine bank or some other trusted organisation force you to make a financial transaction on the spot. Always remember: Stop. Think. Check
4. Listen to your instincts – you know if something doesn’t feel right. Criminals may lull you into a false sense of security when you are out and about or rely on your defences being down when you’re in the comfort of your own home.
5. Stay in control – don’t panic and make a decision you’ll regret. Have the confidence to refuse unusual requests for personal or financial information. It’s easy to feel embarrassed when faced with unexpected or complex conversations. But it’s okay to stop the discussion if you do not feel in control of it.
