If you have fallen for a phishing scam, act fast to limit harm.
We recommend these 5 steps:
Immediate actions:
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Disconnect and secure
Unplug from Wi-Fi or Ethernet and change any passwords you’ve shared.
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Scan and back up
Run a complete malware scan. Back up photos, documents and other critical files in case you need a clean reinstall.
Then, inform and report:
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Contact your bank
Let them know at once so they can stop unauthorised transactions and protect your funds .
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Report to Action Fraud or Police Scotland
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland call 0300 123 2040; in Scotland contact Police Scotland. They will log it as a crime .
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Forward the email
Send suspicious messages to report@phishing.gov.uk or use your email client’s “Report Phishing” feature to help tech teams block it.
Monitor and Protect
Continue to review bank statements daily for any odd transactions. Set up alerts or consider a credit-file freeze with your bank or credit reference agencies to catch any new fraud early.
Emotional Support and Learning
Recognise that feelings of shame, guilt or anxiety are common after being scammed – remember, it happens to many people and it’s not your fault. Reach out to friends, family or support groups to share your experience and rebuild confidence. Finally, educate yourself on the latest phishing tactics – errors, fake domains, urgent demands – so you spot scams faster next time. Knowing what to watch for is one of the best ways to stay safe in future.
Next, test your knowledge of phishing prevention in this quiz. word-scramble-puzzle-test-your-phishing-smarts
References
National Cyber Security Centre. (n.d.). Phishing scams: If you’ve shared sensitive information. Retrieved 29 April 2025
Federal Trade Commission. (n.d.). Phishing. Retrieved 29 April 2025
Action Fraud. (n.d.). I’ve been a victim of fraud. Retrieved 29 April 2025
National Cyber Security Centre. (n.d.). Cyber Aware. Retrieved 29 April 2025
National Cyber Security Centre. (n.d.). Phishing: Spot and report scam emails, texts, websites and calls. Retrieved 29 April 2025
