Common scams and how to spot them
Quick, plain-English guides to the scams people in the UK see most. Each one explains how it works, the warning signs, and what to do. Unsure about a specific message? Check it with Guardurai.
- Delivery & parcels
Royal Mail delivery text scam
A fake Royal Mail text says your parcel is held until you pay a small redelivery or customs fee, linking to a convincing but fake payment page.
Read the guide → - Government & tax
HMRC tax refund scam
A text, email, or call claims HMRC owes you a refund and asks you to click a link and enter bank or card details to 'claim' it.
Read the guide → - Impersonation
'Hi Mum' WhatsApp scam
Someone messages from an unknown number pretending to be your son or daughter who has 'lost their phone', then asks you to urgently send money.
Read the guide → - Account phishing
PayPal account phishing
A fake PayPal email warns that your account is limited, or that an unexpected payment went out, and pushes you to 'log in' through a link.
Read the guide → - Impersonation
Bank impersonation (safe account) scam
A caller or text claims to be your bank's fraud team, says your account is at risk, and tells you to move your money to a new 'safe account'.
Read the guide → - Investment
Crypto investment scam
A message, social media ad, or 'advisor' promises high, guaranteed returns from crypto trading — often using fake celebrity endorsements.
Read the guide →