Scam warning as fraudsters use unexpected trick to steal money | UK | News

Common tricks used by fraudsters to steal money have been revealed in a trick that will surprise many Brits. December will be a busy month for online shopping, with people across the country purchasing gifts for friends and family.

This means scammers are waiting to jump at the opportunity to steal money. Emails are the most common way scammers target people, along with other methods such as text messages and phone calls. But another way cheaters ply their trade is by targeting people using QR codes promising free gifts.

QR codes, which are scanned using a phone’s camera, have become more common in the UK, being used in shops, advertising and restaurants.

Virgin Money head of fraud Gareth Pindred said shoppers should be very careful when using QR codes promising free gifts.

“If it’s too good to be true, it probably is,” he said. It revealed that fraudsters often use fake QR codes to steal personal information.

“There is a level of protection your bank can provide, but you are the first line of defense when it comes to protecting yourself from fraudsters,” Mr Pindred said.

“Some things may seem common sense, but the truth is that people across the country are being scammed every week, so there are simple things you need to keep in mind.

“If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t, so always make sure you trust your gut first and foremost and take the time to ‘Stop. Think. Check.'”

A recent study of 2,000 adults found that almost half (47%) of adults have almost been fooled by a scam. Meanwhile, two-thirds admit they have been victims of at least one type of fraud.