12 scams of Christmas: Warning to Wakefield shoppers to be on their guard against scammers this Christmas

Scams identified over Christmas include fake delivery notifications which are disguised as emails from well-known couriers to get people to log in and share their details, as well as look-a-like websites - fake websites that look identical to big brands designed to steal personal details and money.

They also include phishing emails to make people click on dangerous links, fake charities appealing for donations and counterfeit goods.

The council is asking residents to be extra vigilant over the Christmas period and also to look out for and warn older and more vulnerable friends, family and neighbours.

​Coun Maureen Cummings, Wakefield Council's Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Poverty, said: "It is very upsetting to think that people are trying to scam others during what should be a fun and enjoyable time of year.

"However, we can all help keep each other safe by keeping in contact and warning others about the dangers. Also, basic things such as asking for ID from anyone claiming to be from a charity or never giving out your bank details can save someone from being scammed.

"Please spread the message and help to keep us all safe this Christmas."

The 12 Scams of Christmas are:

Online shopping fraud

Love top brands with low prices? Well stay vigilant for counterfeit goods. These range from poorly made clothes to dangerous electronics which fail to comply with safety laws. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Christmas e-cards

If you receive an anonymous e-card, better to play it safe and delete the email as it could be infected with a virus that could shut down your device and you could be held to ransom to restore files. Get an Anti-virus installed that will alert you.

Phishing emails

Criminals send emails that look genuine to make you click on the link which will open a fake website site. Think before clicking

Look-a-like website

This year more than ever we are buying Christmas gifts online. Criminals have set up fake websites that look identical. Secure websites address start with "HTTPS" and display a padlock

Gift card scams

Received an email from a friend asking you to buy a gift card for them? Criminals clone and pretend to be people you know to get you to do this. They are after the card to spend the money.

Brexit scams

Criminals may contact you to make "no lose" investments to help capitalise on Brexit. They may also pose as HMRC to get money.

Fake delivery notification

Over Christmas you'll have packages being delivered all the time. Criminals are using this to send you phishing emails disguised as well-known couriers hoping you'll log in and share your details.

Covid-19 scams

Have you received a letter from your Council identifying you as a close contact? This is a new way that criminals are getting your details by asking you to book a test on a fake website.

Fake charities

Watch out for criminals using legitimate charities names to appeal for a donation. Ask for their charity ID or donate on their website.

Refund scams

Another way criminals will try and get your details this year is by sending emails or texts asking for your details so that you can get your refund. You do not need to give your details for a refund.

Fake romances

Looking for festive love? Online criminals are too. Over time the relationship will develop and they will convince you to make payments to their account.

Phone scams

Criminals are increasingly calling people to discuss a topic, investment or deal. They will ask you to press a number on your phone which will cost you a lot of money on your phone bill and the criminals will profit from this.

Anyone who is a victim of a scam should report it to Action Fraud via www.actionfraud.police.ukAny business, charity or organisation which is suffering a live cyber-attack can call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040

To find out more advice and guidance on cyber security, visit the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) at https://www.ncsc.gov.uk