Do you know what SPOOFING is?

Fraudsters use a technique called spoofing to make calls, texts and emails, using software to imitate organisations phone numbers - such as your bank, credit card companies or even the police.

They do this, to make the call appear genuine and gain trust in an attempt to try and convince unsuspecting victims into transferring funds or providing personal or financial details.

Here are six steps to take to avoid getting ‘spoofed’:

1. Even if the number on your caller ID matches that of your bank, or an organisation like the police, you must still verify the call.
2. We advise that you hang up the call and contact the organisation back, using a number you know is genuine. You can do this by finding the companies name from a statement, looking them up through a search engine (e.g. Google) or on the back of your bank card.
3. The fraudster may still be on the line - when calling the organisation in question, please make sure that you either wait for more than ten seconds after hanging up before dialling, or better still, use a different phone altogether.
4. Caller ID merely displays the number it’s been told to, it does not confirm validity of the call. Ask the caller for their name and a way to verify they are an employee of the organisation they are calling from - if they are claiming to be from the police, ask them for their collar number. Any employee of a legitimate company will willingly provide these details. If the caller refuses or becomes confrontational be suspicious.
5. If the caller is asking you to pay a fine, transfer money or verify personal information end the call immediately!
6. Do not be pressured. Fraudsters will create a feeling of crisis, however, do not get caught up in it.

Don't assume that everyone knows about spoofing, please share this information with your friends and family to help protect them from these scams.

How to report spoofing

If you have been targeted by a scam, then call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Please note: If debit cards, online banking or cheques are involved in the scam, your first step should be to contact your bank or credit card company.