How to protect yourself from fraud – and how to report it

March 2026 PayPlan Blog #1

Fraud and cyber crime rates continue to rise. From phishing emails and fake investment opportunities to identity theft and online shopping scams, criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in how they target people.

Fraud can happen to anyone. Criminals often rely on urgency, fear or trust to pressure people into sharing personal information or sending money.

Common types of fraud include:

• Phishing emails or text messages pretending to be from trusted organisations
• Fake websites or online adverts offering deals that seem too good to be true
• Impersonation scams, where criminals pose as banks, police officers or utility companies
• Investment and romance scams, often built up over weeks or months

Whilst the financial impact of fraud can be significant, it can also take an emotional toll. Many people feel embarrassed or ashamed, which can make them hesitant to report what’s happened. It’s important to remember that support is available.

How to reduce the risk of being defrauded

• If you’re contacted out of the blue, pause and question it. Genuine organisations won’t pressure you to act quickly. You can hang up and call the official number of the ‘organisation’ to check it’s legitimate.
• Never share your passwords, PINs or one-time passcodes. Your bank, the police and other trusted organisations will never ask for these.
• Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from senders you don’t recognise.
• Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts and enable two-factor authentication where available.
• Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

How to report fraud in England, Wales & Northern Ireland

From the start of 2026, the way fraud and cybercrime are reported has changed. Action Fraud has been replaced by Report Fraud, designed to improve the experience for victims and strengthen how information is shared with the police.

If you live in Scotland, you can report any incidents of fraud to Scotland Police by calling 101.

The new service includes:

• A Report Fraud Contact Centre and online reporting system
• The Report Fraud National Crime Analysis Service (N-CAS), which analyses reports and can be accessed by all police forces
• The Report Fraud Victim Service (formerly the National Economic Crime Victim Care Unit), continues to provide specialist victim support

How to report fraud

You can report fraud and online cybercrime:

• Online: reportfraud.police.uk
• By phone: 0300 123 2040

Why reporting fraud matters

Even if you haven’t lost any money, reporting fraud helps build a national picture of criminal activity. This information supports investigations and helps protect others from being targeted.

If you believe you’ve been targeted by fraud, or have already been affected, please report it and seek support. You don’t need to feel embarrassed – help is available and you’re not alone.

We’re here to help

If you are struggling with debts call us on 0800 072 1206. We’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.

Alternatively, you can visit our www.payplan.com/bfawu to speak to us via live chat or more information