Loneliness at Christmas puts people at risk of scams, campaign warns

Take Five to Stop Fraud is urging communities to look out for vulnerable friends, neighbours or family members who may be at risk this Christmas

An anti-fraud initiative has issued a warning that loneliness could make people more susceptible to scams over the festive period.

Research conducted for the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign revealed that over half (58%) of individuals feel lonely at least occasionally. The campaign is calling on communities to keep an eye out for vulnerable friends, neighbours or family members who may be at risk.

Those feeling isolated can become prime targets for fraudsters, who attempt to gain their trust and manipulate them into divulging personal and financial information. Impersonation and romance scams are particularly damaging methods of fraud, with data from UK Finance showing that over £65m was lost to these types of scams in the first half of 2024.

These scams involve criminals researching their victims and using social engineering tactics to build trust, often posing as a romantic interest, a concerned friend or family member, or a trusted organisation. Over half (53%) of those surveyed admitted they are at least somewhat trusting of complete strangers or people they do not know well, a trait that scammers will exploit to gain access to personal and financial information.

Just under a quarter (24%) of those surveyed confessed they do not have someone in their life who they would confide in if they suspected someone was trying to scam them.

Some 23% of individuals have admitted to clicking on a link, sharing personal details, or making a payment in response to an unexpected request from someone who turned out to be a fraudster. The Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign is now calling for heightened awareness, encouraging the public to pause and think before handing over money or sensitive information.

Giles Mason, a spokesperson for the campaign, warned: "Fraud is a terrible crime that preys on people’s vulnerabilities. During the Christmas period, loneliness can leave people more susceptible to scams. Criminals are very cunning and will try to exploit the goodwill and emotions of the season to build trust and manipulate their victims.

"We urge everyone to stay vigilant and never share personal or financial information with someone you don’t know. Always check who you’re dealing with, even if they seem genuine. If something doesn’t feel right, stop and seek advice."

Professor Andrea Wigfield, co-director of the Campaign to End Loneliness, spoke about the impact of loneliness, particularly during the holidays: "Loneliness is a deeply personal and often invisible struggle that can leave people feeling longing for connection, especially during the festive season.

"Scammers can exploit this vulnerability, pretending to offer friendship or romance while working to steal from their victims. It’s a cruel betrayal of trust that can have devastating effects. We urge everyone to be cautious when interacting with strangers online or over the phone and to look out for others who may be feeling lonely."

The Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign, which is run by UK Finance, urges people to protect themselves in the following ways:

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

2. Challenge. Ask yourself, could it be fake? It is OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

3. Protect. Contact your bank immediately if you think you have been scammed and report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk.

People can find out more about how to stay safe from scams at takefive-stopfraud.org.uk. Many banks have signed up to the 159 call service, which gives people a memorable number to dial if they are worried that something might be a scam. The number provides a simple-to-remember route to their bank if someone receives unexpected contact about a financial matter.

James Masters, head of communications at Stop Scams UK, said: “This Christmas, a simple conversation could make all the difference – letting your friends and family know about the 159 number, which is super easy to remember.

“It provides a safe and direct way to connect with your bank if you think you’re being scammed. If you or someone you know gets a call about a financial matter that seems off, stop, hang up, and dial 159.”

The survey for Take Five was carried out among 2,000 people across the UK by Censuswide in December.