Watch out for scams this Christmas as criminals prey on loneliness

Take Five to Stop Fraud is warning the public to stay alert to fraud as loneliness and isolation during the Christmas period could make people more vulnerable to fraud.

New data from the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign has found that over half (58%) of people in the UK feel lonely at least sometimes, potentially putting them at risk of fraud. Isolation can make people prime targets for fraudsters who attempt to befriend and manipulate them into passing on personal and financial information.

Impersonation and romance scams are particularly harmful methods of defrauding people, with UK Finance data showing that over £65 million was lost to these scam types in the first half of 2024. These frauds involve criminals researching their target and using social engineering tactics to build trust, often posing as a romantic interest, a concerned friend or family member or a trusted organisation. Over half (53%) of people surveyed admitted to being at least somewhat trusting of strangers or people they don’t know, a trait that scammers will exploit to gain access to personal and financial information.

Concerningly, just under a quarter of people in the UK (24%) say there isn’t someone in their life that they would talk to if they thought someone was trying to scam them. This lack of a support network leaves people at greater risk. In addition, almost a quarter (23%) of people worryingly said that they have clicked a link, provided personal information or made a payment in response to an unexpected request from someone who later turned out to not be who they claimed to be.

To empower the public to protect themselves from potential scams this Christmas, the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign is urging people to stop and think whenever they are asked money or financial information.

In addition, Take Five is also calling on communities to look out for vulnerable friends, neighbours, or family members who may be at risk.

Giles Mason, spokesperson for the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign, said:

“Fraud is a terrible crime that preys on people’s vulnerabilities. During the Christmas period, loneliness can leave people more susceptible to scams. Criminals are very cunning and will try to exploit the goodwill and emotions of the season to build trust and manipulate their victims.

“We urge everyone to stay vigilant and never share personal or financial information with someone you don’t know. Always check who you’re dealing with, even if they seem genuine. If something doesn’t feel right, stop and seek advice.”