Scams and online security

Protect your data and yourself by spotting scams and reporting them.

Types of scams

A scam is a type of fraud where someone steals your money or personal information. You can be scammed online, in person, over the phone, or through the post.

Recognising a scam

It may be a scam if:

  • you think the company you’re dealing with is fake, such as there is no postal address
  • you’re asked to transfer money quickly
  • you’re asked to pay in an unusual way, such as using iTunes vouchers or through a transfer service like MoneyGram or Western Union
  • you’re asked to give away personal information like passwords or pin numbers
  • you haven’t received written confirmation of what’s been agreed

When we contact you

We work hard to keep citizens safe from fraud. When we contact you, we will do the following:

Phone

We always go through Data Protection with you before discussing any personal information.     

If you try to call the number back you will receive an automated message letting you know that you have been contacted by the council. This number will be a Leeds number, but may vary for contracted services such as Mears.     

Email

Emails will be sent from @leeds.gov.uk and will address you by name and reference number. Sometimes we may attach electronic documents, forms and links to our website to help you with your request.     

Post

Any letters sent from the council or contracted services will be printed on official headed paper.

Doorstep

We may sometimes need to visit your property. Our employees and partners will have an ID badge that you can ask to see before inviting them into your home.

Report a scam

If you think you have discovered a scam or have been a victim of one, contact ActionFraud.

Online support

For advice on how to stay safe online and free skills training, visit Learn my way.

Cyber security

From online banking and shopping, to email and social media, it's more important than ever to take steps that can prevent cyber criminals getting hold of your accounts, data, and devices. 

Read the NCSC's cyber security advice to protect you and your family. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is an organisation of the UK government that provides advice and support in how to avoid computer security threats.