Impersonation Scams
In this section, we’ll explain what impersonation scams are, how they work, and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to them. Impersonation scams involve fraudsters pretending to be someone you know or trust, like a family member, bank representative, or even a government official. Their goal is to trick you into giving away personal information, sending money, or granting access to your accounts. These scammers often sound very convincing and may use real names and details to make their story more believable.
Impersonation scams can happen through phone calls, emails, text messages, or even social media. You might receive a call saying your grandchild is in trouble and needs money, or an email that looks like it’s from your bank, asking you to confirm your details. Scammers use fear and urgency to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking it through.
By the end of this section, you’ll know how to spot the warning signs of impersonation scams, what steps to take if you suspect something isn’t right, and how to protect your personal information from falling into the wrong hands. Being aware of these tricks can help you stay safe and avoid being targeted by scammers.
How Impersonation Scams Work
Fake Emails or Text Messages - Scammers often send emails or text messages that look like they’re from trusted companies, friends, or family members. These messages may ask you to click a link or provide personal information.
Fake Phone Calls - Impersonators may call pretending to be from a government agency, bank, or tech support. They might ask you to confirm your personal details, provide payment, or grant access to your computer.
Social Media Impersonation - Scammers can create fake profiles on social media that look like people you know. They may reach out and try to ask for money or personal information.
Tech Support Scams - Fraudsters might pretend to be from well-known companies (like Microsoft or Apple) and claim there’s an issue with your computer. They’ll try to trick you into giving them remote access to your device or paying for unnecessary services.
How to Protect Yourself from Impersonation Scams
Don’t Trust Unsolicited Requests - Be cautious of unexpected messages or calls asking for personal info or money. Always verify the request.
Check the Sender’s Details - Double-check email addresses or phone numbers to ensure they’re legitimate.
Don’t Share Personal Information - Avoid sharing sensitive details unless you’re certain of the person's identity.
Use Strong Authentication - Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added account security.
Report Suspicious Activity - Report any suspicious communication to the relevant authority or company.
What to Do if You’ve Fallen Victim to an Impersonation Scam
Stop Communication - If you realise you’re dealing with a scammer, stop all communication with them immediately.
Change Passwords - If the scammer had access to your accounts or even if you are unsure, change your passwords immediately.
Report It - Report the scam to your bank, online accounts, or any affected service to prevent further damage.
Monitor Your Accounts - Keep an eye on your bank and credit accounts for any unusual activity or unauthorised charges.