Start by pausing before sending money or sharing personal details, especially if someone creates urgency or promises unusually high returns. Check firms and investment opportunities on the FCA’s Firm Checker and Warning List, and contact organisations using details from their official website rather than a message or phone call. Keep devices and accounts secure with strong, unique passwords and two-step verification, and talk to someone you trust before making a major payment. If you think you have been scammed, contact your bank immediately and report it through the official Report Fraud service.