Online scams are hitting more people than ever — and older adults remain top targets. Whether it’s crypto cons or fake tech support, the tactics are constantly evolving.
At SafeHaven Recovery, we support victims every day — and we’ve identified the most common scams affecting vulnerable adults in the UK right now.
Here’s what you need to watch for.
1. 💸 Fake Cryptocurrency Investment Platforms
The pitch: “Invest in this new coin. Guaranteed returns. Join early and watch your money grow!”
How it works:
- The scammer poses as a “crypto expert” or financial adviser.
- They may use fake websites showing rising profits.
- Victims are asked to keep investing… until the platform suddenly disappears or locks them out.
Red flags:
- Promises of high, risk-free returns
- Pressure to act quickly
- No FCA registration
Protect yourself:
✅ Always verify platforms on the FCA register
✅ Never invest via social media or unsolicited messages
2. 🖥️ Tech Support Scams
The pitch: “We’ve detected a virus on your computer. Let us fix it remotely.”
How it works:
- The victim gets a pop-up or call pretending to be from Microsoft, BT, or Apple.
- The scammer asks to remotely access the computer.
- Once inside, they steal data, install spyware, or drain bank accounts.
Red flags:
- Unsolicited tech calls
- Urgent warnings or fake virus messages
- Asking for remote access
Protect yourself:
✅ Never let a stranger access your computer
✅ Hang up and call the real provider directly
3. 💌 Romance Scams (Especially via Facebook & WhatsApp)
The pitch: “I love you. I want a future with you. I just need a little help first…”
How it works:
- The scammer builds a relationship over time — often posing as someone in the military, overseas, or wealthy.
- Emotional manipulation begins.
- They ask for money — for flights, emergencies, crypto, or “a business opportunity.”
Red flags:
- Never meeting in person or video
- Asking for secrecy
- Constant “emergencies” needing money
Protect yourself:
✅ Trust your gut
✅ Never send money to someone you’ve never met
✅ Talk to a trusted friend or adviser
4. 📞 Bank Impersonation Scams
The pitch: “This is your bank. There’s been suspicious activity — we need to move your money to a safe account.”
How it works:
- The call may even appear to come from the real bank (spoofed).
- The scammer tricks the victim into transferring their money to a fake “safe” account.
- Sometimes, the fraudster will guide the victim through the process step by step.
Red flags:
- Calls asking to move or verify funds
- Saying your account is “under investigation”
- Asking for PINs, passwords or codes
Protect yourself:
✅ Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your card
✅ Banks will NEVER ask you to move money
5. 💷 Fake Pension or Investment Advisers
The pitch: “Let me help you unlock your pension early or invest it for better returns.”
How it works:
- Fraudsters cold-call or message offering “free pension reviews.”
- Victims are talked into transferring their pension to unsafe or fake schemes.
- Once the money is moved, it’s gone — and may not be recoverable.
Red flags:
- Promises of early access or high returns
- Calls or texts out of the blue
- Pushy sales tactics
Protect yourself:
✅ Check if they’re FCA-authorised
✅ Speak to an independent financial adviser you trust
👁️ Stay Alert, Stay Safe
These scams are often sophisticated, convincing, and emotionally manipulative. Even tech-savvy people fall for them — so never feel ashamed.
If you think you or a loved one may have been targeted:
👉 Contact SafeHaven Recovery for a confidential consultation.
We’re here to help you spot fraud, protect what matters, and recover where possible.
