Common sense and general vigilance These are your best protection against the many online scams in circulation.
Scammers often use email Make sure you have spam controls in place. Virgin Media has powerful spam filters on its email.
Never give money Never send money to "claim your winnings", and never invest in a scheme claiming to be financially lucrative.
If unsure you can call Consumer Direct You can reach them on 0845 040506 or visit the Consumer Direct website
Be suspicious Be wary of companies that only have a PO Box for an address.
Never give your personal details Only provide your name, address, telephone number and postcode if you are a customer. Some scammers ask for bank details.
Premium rate numbers start with 090 So if you are asked to call one of these numbers it may be a scam.
Scammers are inventive From fake lotteries, prize draws, lucrative jobs (especially work-from-home schemes) to fake online dating and psychics.
Scammers will contact you without asking This can be by email, phone, post, or in person.
Scammers will contact you without asking If you have been a victim you should report it to Consumer Direct. They also provide useful information on scams, and how to avoid them.