Nationwide warns of ‘worrying’ actions as scammers need ‘few pieces of data’ to strike | Personal Finance | Finance
Scams of all kinds are targeting people across the country, and it is important for individuals to stay alert. However, new research by the building society has found many could be doing more to keep themselves safe.
Nationwide highlighted “oversharing on social media sites” as a key vulnerability among Britons.
Its research found seven in 10 people admitted they shared personal information on there, including full names, posting age or date of birth, mentioning their employer or job title, or mobile number.
Some 15 percent share pet names or family names which may be used as security questions elsewhere.
The building society stressed “checking is important” but found nearly a quarter of those asked never check their credit file, and seven percent never check bank statements for suspicious transactions.
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“But our survey shows a worrying lack of steps taken by people to protect themselves.
“We urge everyone to be vigilant by protecting their details and observing a few basic tips – don’t overshare your information unnecessarily, consider who is following your online activity, and protect your devices and accounts with both security software and strong passwords or codes that are not the same.
“Don’t provide information to anyone contacting you unexpectedly, or respond to emails or texts requesting information, without checking carefully they are genuine.
“Also make sure to cancel or report lost or stolen cards immediately and regularly check statements and credit files for any issues.”
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Those who believe they have been targeted by a scam should contact their bank or building society immediately.
Calling the number on the back of one’s bank card is generally considered the safest action.
Nationwide has also set up a 24/7 freephone number for members to report if they believe they have been a victim of a scam on 0800 055 66 22.
Britons can also reach out to Action Fraud, the national fraud and cybercrime reporting service, for assistance.
