Fraudsters are constantly adapting their tactics and use a wide range of methods to try and steal your money and information. Take Five to Stop Fraud is issuing a fresh warning to consumers on the latest scams circulating this month. From fake airline compensation to fraudulent weight‑loss products and doorstep scams, criminals are finding new ways to pressure people into handing over money or personal information.

Here’s what you need to look out for and how to stay safe.

Middle East Flight Disruption Scams

With ongoing conflict in the Middle East causing widespread disruption to flights, criminals are impersonating well‑known airlines and offering fake “compensation” to affected customers.

They’re creating convincing social media accounts impersonating airlines, or their customer support teams, and contacting customers seeking help for disrupted travel. Victims often receive private messages requesting personal or bank details under the guise of issuing a refund, but instead are tricked into transferring money directly to the fraudster.

How to protect yourself

• Stop and think before giving away your money or personal information.
• Only speak to airlines using official, verified channels – never through unsolicited messages.
• Remember: only criminals will try to rush you.

Find out more about travel refund scams on our Holiday Scams advice page.

Fake Weight‑Loss Product Scams

Reports of fake weight‑loss pills and injections circulating on social media are increasing. Fraudsters are impersonating genuine pharmaceutical companies and advertising prescription‑only weight‑loss medication at unusually low prices.

Victims are often steered toward cloned websites or encouraged to contact the seller directly. Criminals may then claim additional payments are needed to speed up delivery – but the product never arrives.

How to protect yourself

• Research sellers and review their credentials carefully.
• Read online reviews from reliable sources.
• Be wary of anyone who pressures you to pay by bank transfer.
• Visit the Take Five guidance on purchase scams for more tips.

Find out more about how to stay safe on our purchase scams advice page.

Doorstep Trade Scams

Doorstep scams can be common this time of year, with criminals posing as tradespeople offering urgent repairs – often claiming there’s a problem with your roof, driveway or gutters that must be fixed immediately.

Doorstep scammers aren’t always pushy and forceful – they may even seem polite or friendly at first. They may offer an attractive price upfront, only to increase costs later, or request payment before any work begins.

How to protect yourself

• Verify a company’s credentials using contact details you know are genuine.
• Don’t feel pressured into agreeing to work on the spot – take time to check and get a second opinion.
• Remember, it’s always ok to say no. If you feel threatened or in danger, call the police on 999.

Find out more about how to stay safe on our doorstep scams advice page.

Remember: STOP – CHALLENGE – PROTECT

These three steps remain the simplest way to stay safe from scams:

STOP: Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could keep you safe.

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.

PROTECT: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve been scammed and tell the Police at reportfraud.police.uk or on 0300 123 2040.