Bank highlights top five scam fears for 2025

We are predicting the five scams to be wary of in 2025:

1. Facebook Marketplace purchase scams
2. Impersonation of reputable organisations e.g. bank staff/police/courier firms/HMRC
3. Investments in Crypto via a rogue broker
4. Off platform ticket sales
5. Car finance reimbursement scandal

Facebook Marketplace Purchase Scams

Peer to peer selling on Facebook Marketplace has been targeted by scammers offering goods that simply do not exist. Be wary of any deal that seems too good to be true and be cautious of new profiles.  Ideally, only pay on collection when you have had a chance to review the goods in person.  In the last 12 months we have seen an increase in fraudulent merchants offering goods for sale at attractive prices and then convincing the customers to purchase with card payments being accepted.   So, not only do you need to be mindful of sellers asking for you to make a payment, but there are also sellers who accept card payments that you need to be aware of.

Impersonation of reputable organisations e.g. bank staff/police/courier firms/HMRC

Consumers are being bombarded by phone, text or email from “trusted” organisations such as their bank, the police, HMRC, delivery companies and utility providers asking for payment or personal and financial details – but these requests are all scams. 

Ahead of the new financial year in April, this time of year HMRC scams are rife. Threatening calls from HMRC asking you to act quickly to pay an outstanding tax bill should be a red flag to pause.  Contact HMRC directly if you have concerns and do not respond to any urgent demands, share any personal information, or click on any links provided.

Investments in Crypto via a rogue broker

However attractive this type of investment may seem, it is inherently risky as online platforms can be breeding grounds for fraudulent schemes, so thorough research and caution are crucial.

Off platform ticket sales
Popular sporting events and major music tours are natural targets for scammers.  Be wary of any tickets not offered through known, reputable sites.

Car finance reimbursement scandal

Lenders and dealers have been accused of hiding commission payments made when cars were bought on finance deals. Motorists are being encouraged to sign up for compensation – be wary of sharing your bank details with a random text or email about this compensation scheme. Instead, check out the form and tool guide on Martin Lewis’s MoneySavingExpert.com website.  Ensure you use the correct link to this site as opposed to any links sent via email or other means as the fraudsters do impersonate well known celebrities to make the scam look more attractive. 

Consumers can find more information on the www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/&source=gmail&ust=1735724608605000&usg=AOvVaw1HDbf9cEWzT5UnSjHbYL0J">Take Five to Stop Fraud website. Take Five is a national campaign that offers straightforward and impartial advice to help everyone protect themselves from financial fraud.

Three easy steps can help prevent a scam from being successful:

1. Stop -Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could keep you safe.
2. Challenge - Ask yourself, could it be fake? It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
3. Protect - Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve been scammed and report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk&source=gmail&ust=1735724608605000&usg=AOvVaw2LqkXjkJqu8FkC85T9Tjjk">actionfraud.police.uk or call them on 0330 123 2040.