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Advance fee scams
If you have to pay a fee upfront for goods or services, make sure it’s genuine first.
Find out how to tell if it’s a scam.
What is an advance fee scam?
An advance fee scam is when you pay a fee upfront for goods or services but don’t get anything in return.
Scams like this usually start with a phone call. But they can take place on WhatsApp, email or by text.
Be careful filling in any forms you find on Google, or even personal recommendations. Fraudsters can use your details to get in touch and a company could be fake.
Quick online loans are a common advance fee scam.
Learn how to spot a fake loan in our video (1 min 9 sec).
Before you pay an upfront fee for goods, services or to receive money check that it’s genuine.
How this scam works
Common advance fee scams
There are many kinds of advance fee scams, here are a few common ones to watch out for.
How to check and report a company
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The FCA Warning List covers any firm or individual who’s not allowed to offer financial services.
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Report any scam, firm or individual to the FCA.
Learn about other scams and how to protect yourself
Protect your passwords
Fraudsters will try to guess passwords to your online accounts.
Protect your devices
Do you know how to keep your devices safe?
Social media scams
Did you know fraudsters set up fake profiles just to steal money?
Passcode scams
Fraudsters can phone to ask you to share a passcode.
Investment scams
Fraudsters pretend to be genuine companies and advisers.
Scam emails and texts
Fraudsters use scam emails and texts to steal your details.
