UK smartphone users are being reminded to remember the four-digit number 7726, which allows them to forward suspicious text messages to a dedicated helpline free of charge. The reminder comes from Action Fraud, which has reported that more than 40,700 scams have been removed as a result of public reports.
How the service works
Once a scam message is spotted, it can be forwarded to 7726, where specialists carry out checks and put blocks in place to prevent it from being sent to others. The service is free to use.
In a post on X, Action Fraud said: "Received a text message you think is a scam? Report it. Forward the message to 7726 (it's free of charge). Over 40,700 scams have been removed as a result of suspicious text messages reported by the public."
Common scams to watch for
There are several ways to spot scams, including watching out for a sense of urgency or spotting spelling mistakes in messages. Clicking on embedded links is also a bad idea, and it's never wise to hand over personal information that's been asked for via a message.
It's also important to beware of so-called "Hi mum" scams, which attempt to trick people into handing over money by posing as a family member in distress. Missed parcel texts, parking fine warnings and subscriptions being cancelled are also attacks that continue to catch people out.
Example of a parking scam
Recently, Express.co.uk was contacted by a worried reader after they received a message from a parking company saying they hadn't paid for a recent visit. The text read: "Our records show that your vehicle exited the car park yesterday at 20:10. Payment for this parking session has not yet been received. Please enter your vehicle registration number to view your parking session."
Having checked it out, it was found to be an elaborate scam that was attempting to steal credit card details.
What to do if unsure
If you aren't sure, don't respond. If a company issues an urgent text and you are worried, simply call their official number and chat with a member of staff. Alternatively, log in and check your online account, as this will show if there really is anything wrong.
And remember, if you spot a scam, send it to 7726 as it could help protect someone else in the future.
