While a lot of common sense is needed to avoid getting caught, there are a number of other things you can do:
1. Firstly, if it looks too good to be true it probably is.
2. Investigate unsolicited e-mails, phone calls and post before sending off information such as your credit card details.
3. Avoid offers that make demands or ask you to give a small amount of money in exchange for a prize.
4. Never open an email from an unknown source as it could contain a virus that will gather your personal information.
5. Never accept a friend request on social media from someone you don’t know as it could be a phishing scam.
6. Be wary of ‘make money quick’ job ads, especially ones that ask you to pay a fee upfront.
If you are caught up in a scam, report it to the authorities as soon as you know to help bring the perpetrators to justice. Unfortunately, you aren't guaranteed to get your money back even if you do report it.
