Criminals often pose as solicitors to trick homebuyers into sending deposit or purchase money to their accounts. They usually gain access to genuine legal email accounts, making fake messages seem real. You might also receive convincing phone calls or texts.
Sharing your move on social media can make you an easy target. Scammers may spend weeks gathering personal info to make their scam look believable — using fake invoices or email addresses that closely mimic the real ones.
These scams could cost you thousands and may even cause your home purchase to collapse.
How to protect yourself
Confirm payment details/changes to payment details in person or over the phone on a trusted number.
Always question changes in payment information – firms rarely change their bank details.
Avoid posting on social media about a property purchase, sale or mortgage acceptance.
Set strong passwords and separate passwords for your accounts and use up to date anti-virus software .
Avoid public or unprotected Wi-Fi systems to check emails as they can be less secure than private ones.
When making a large payment transfer a small sum to the recipient and confirm they have received it before transferring the entire amount.
Agree a clear process with your legal professional by which legitimate changes in details would occur – always ask for confirmation in writing by post.
A-Z of scams
Take Five to Stop Fraud
Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop and think. It could protect you and your money.
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 report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or on 0300 123 2040.