Phishing · 4 min
Phishing is a message pretending to be someone you trust, so you hand over your details or your money yourself. It works because it catches you when you're busy.
10 secs
is all it takes to check. The rush in the message is there to stop you taking them.
The 10-second version
Spot the pattern once and you'll see it everywhere, whoever the message claims to be from.
A name you trust
Your bank, HMRC, Royal Mail, your boss, your mum.
A reason to hurry
Payment blocked. Parcel returned. Account closing today.
A simple next step
Tap this link, call this number, read me the code.
The name on the screen proves nothing. Scammers can make a call or text show your bank's real name.
You are waiting for a parcel. What do you do?
It happens to careful people. Don't let embarrassment slow you down, because the first hour matters most.
Call your bank on 159
They can freeze cards and try to stop or recall the payment.
Change your passwords
On that account, and anywhere else that shares the password.
Ask about a refund
Banks must refund most scam transfers, and unauthorised payments.
Watch for round two: a "recovery" firm asking for a fee is the same scammers.
Ready to dive deeper? The full Phishing guide has the mechanics, worked examples and fine print.