Consumers warned over pre-paid energy scams

Consumers warned to avoid discounted pre-pay energy top-ups

Cifas, the leading fraud prevention service in Britain, issued a warning to gas and electricity customers about pre-paid energy scams masquerading as discounted offers. These scams have impacted more than 188,000 victims, including customers of British Gas, EDF Energy, E.ON, Scottish Power, and SSE. The escalating cost of living is no hidden fact, causing anxiety…

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How to avoid social media scams

An increasing number of people falling victim to social media investment scams

An increasing number of people are being duped into investing in social media scams. According to the US-based Federal Trade Commission, social media was “…far more profitable to scammers in 2021 than any other method of reaching people.” When you think about it, social media is a scammer’s dream. They have access to the same…

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Top 7 cryptocurrency scams

Seven cryptocurrency scams to look out for

Cryptocurrency is a new and fast-moving sector, which is probably why it hasn’t been covered in previous posts. After all, where does one start? Luckily, this question was answered last week after we found evidence of people being duped into handing over large sums. Unsurprisingly, the swiftly-expanding nature and popularity of cryptocurrencies have led to…

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Swindlers and the power of persuasion

Fraudsters use the power of persuasion

Several posts have referenced convicted fraudster Elizabeth Holmes recently because the Theranos scandal is a good example of how the power of persuasion can lead to innocent investors losing substantial amounts. Many of those who invested in Theranos were shrewd and experienced. And yet, they were completely unaware of the fraud taking place under their…

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Due diligence, the best remedy for cons and scams

Research your investments

Navigating the world of investments is no mean feat. It’s almost like walking through a beautiful bazaar with lots of shiny items, and smiling vendors luring you into buying their sparkling goods. They all look good from the off, so how are you supposed to know who’s offering a good deal? Luckily, in the world…

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When sweet investments turn sour

When sweet investments turn sour

Let’s set the scene. You were dazzled by a shiny investment prospect. The promise of returns were high, and the representative sold the heck out of it. Perhaps the first date (or two) of your dividend payments came around and you got paid. Great. All was going to plan. But then… Help! There’s been a…

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