Phone scams targeting seniors have increased by 40% in recent years. This guide gives you the tools to recognise and avoid them — with complete peace of mind.
Scammers are unfortunately very skilled. But once you know their techniques, you can protect yourself easily. This guide is here to reassure you and give you simple reflexes.
The 4 Most Common Phone Scams in 2026
1. The Fake Technical Support (Microsoft, BT, Sky…)
The scammer calls pretending to be a technician from Microsoft, BT or your internet provider. They tell you that your computer is infected with a virus and that you need to act quickly.
How to spot it:
- Microsoft and providers NEVER call without you contacting them first
- They ask you to install software to “fix” your device
- They demand payment by card or bank transfer
What to do: Hang up immediately. It is a scam 100% of the time.
2. The Fake Bank Adviser
The scammer pretends to be from your bank and tells you that a suspicious payment has been made on your account. They ask for your codes to “secure” your account.
How to spot it:
- Your bank will NEVER ask for your codes over the phone
- Artificial urgency (“you must act within 10 minutes”)
- The displayed number may look like your bank’s (it can be faked)
What to do: Hang up. Call your bank yourself using the number on the back of your card.
3. The Fake Government Agent (HMRC, NHS, Council)
The scammer claims to be from HMRC, the NHS or your local council. They announce a refund or a fine and ask for your bank details.
How to spot it:
- Official bodies NEVER ask for bank details over the phone
- They do not ask you to pay a fine by phone
- Refunds are processed automatically, without action on your part
What to do: Hang up. If you have a concern, go to the official website or contact them directly.
4. The Online Marketplace Scam
You are selling something on Facebook Marketplace or a similar site. A “buyer” asks for your card number to “verify” you or send you money.
How to spot it:
- A buyer NEVER needs your card number to pay
- They send you a code by text and ask you to share it (it is a bank verification code)
- They offer to pay more than the asking price
What to do: Never give out your card number or codes received by text.
The Reflexes That Protect You
These 3 simple rules protect you against 95% of scams:
Rule 1 — Hang up, call back If someone calls claiming to be from an official institution, hang up. Then call the official number yourself.
Rule 2 — Never share codes by phone No legitimate person will ever ask for your PIN, your password, or a code received by text.
Rule 3 — Take your time Scammers create artificial urgency. Always take the time to hang up and speak to a family member before acting.
Official Numbers to Know
| Service | Number | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Action Fraud | 0300 123 2040 | 24/7 (reporting) |
| Citizens Advice | 0800 144 8848 | Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (free) |
| Police (non-emergency) | 101 | 24/7 |
| Emergency | 999 | 24/7 |
The most important number to remember: 0300 123 2040 — This is Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre. Trained advisers help you for free.
If You Have Already Been a Victim
Do not be ashamed — these scams deceive thousands of people every year, including highly educated individuals. The scammers are professionals.
Act quickly:
- Call your bank to block payments (the number is on the back of your card)
- Report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at actionfraud.police.uk
- Contact Citizens Advice on 0800 144 8848 for guidance on next steps
- Report to your local police if needed by calling 101
You are not alone. Professionals are there to help you.
Questions fréquentes
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A suspicious call often shows these signs: extreme urgency, demand for immediate payment, request for your bank codes, claiming to be Microsoft or your bank without you having contacted them. If in doubt, hang up and call the official number yourself.
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Hang up immediately, even if the caller seems legitimate. Then call your bank yourself using the number on the back of your bank card. Your bank will NEVER ask for your codes over the phone.
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You can report a scam to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at actionfraud.police.uk. You can also report suspicious calls and texts to 7726 (free).
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Yes, this is possible through a technique called spoofing. The number displayed on your phone can be faked. This is why you should always hang up and call the official number yourself.
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Act quickly: 1) Call your bank to block payments if money has been transferred. 2) Report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. 3) Report to your local police if needed. 4) Contact Citizens Advice on 0800 144 8848 for guidance.