As financial scams become increasingly sophisticated, CyberScotland Partnership is urging individuals, businesses, and organisations across Scotland to stay vigilant. This quarter’s campaign, Secure Finance, highlights the growing threat of online fraud, from romance scams to fake cryptocurrency investments.
The campaign themes have been selected based in data and insights from Police Scotland on the most reported crimes. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit trust, steal personal data, and access funds. By recognising these threats and adopting key protective measures, we can all contribute to a safer and more resilient digital Scotland.
Over the next three months, we’ll be sharing valuable insights and practical advice to help protect against financial scams. Get involved by sharing our campaign using the hashtag #StaySecureOnline and help spread awareness across your community.
Protecting yourself against financial scams
Investment crypto fraud – if it sounds too good to be true, it is
Scammers promise big crypto gains but often leave victims with nothing. Before investing, thoroughly research any opportunity and ensure it’s registered with financial authorities. Stay alert and don’t fall for high-pressure sales tactics.
Romance fraud – love or lies?
Real love doesn’t ask for cash. If an online match requests money or financial help, it’s likely a scam. Protect your heart—and your wallet—by being cautious when forming online relationships.
Business email compromise – think before you click
One dodgy email, one click, one costly mistake. Cybercriminals often impersonate senior executives or suppliers to trick employees into transferring funds. Always double-check email requests before making payments.
Remote access fraud – smishing scams
A text can be a trap. Scammers use fake text messages to trick people into clicking malicious links or granting remote access to their devices. Never click suspicious links or share access details – stay alert.
Stay alert and report suspicious activity
If you suspect a scam, report it to the relevant Police Scotland by calling 101 or the National Cyber Security Centre. Raising awareness and sharing information helps protect others from falling victim to similar threats.
By staying informed and keeping a vigilant eye out for scams, we can all contribute to a safer online environment. Let’s work together to build a more cyber-resilient Scotland.
Additional Resources / For Further Reading:
The following websites include additional advice and links to other trusted resources where you can find out more:
Police Scotland – internet safety
Police Scotland has lots of fantastic resources on internet safety covering a variety of topics, including:
- Internet dating – https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/internet-safety/
- Romance fraud – https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/internet-safety/romance-fraud/
- Sextortion – https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/internet-safety/sextortion/
More advice on internet safety can be found here – https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/internet-safety/
National Cyber Security Centre – defending your organisation against business email compromise
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/business-email-compromise-defending-your-organisation
Trading Standards Scotland – more information on remote access scams
https://www.tsscot.co.uk/remote-access-scams/
Royal Bank of Scotland – cryptocurrency scams
https://www.rbs.co.uk/business/security/cryptocurrency-fraud.html
Lead Scotland – how to spot romance scams
https://www.lead.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Easy-Read-Romance-Scams.pdf
CyberScotland Partnership – Social Channels
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564704380983
Bsky:
https://bsky.app/profile/cyberscotland.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/cyber.scotland
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