Avoid loan sharks and scams

Not sure what a loan shark is?

If you can answer yes to one or more of these questions you might be borrowing from a loan shark:

Did they offer you a cash loan?
Did they not give you paperwork?
Did they add huge amounts of interest or APR to your loan?
Have they threatened you?
Are you scared of people finding out?
Have they taken your bank card, benefit card, passport, watch or other valuables from you?

How to spot a loan shark

Report A Loan Shark

Stop Loan Sharks will help you. They understand that reporting a loan shark is scary but they will help keep you safe. Please call them on 0300 555 2222. The team are here to speak to you any time of day or night.

Avoiding Scams and protect your money

Scammers often target people who are worried about money or looking for help. They may pretend to be from the council, your bank, or a government service and contact you by phone, text, email, or at your door.

Common warning signs

You are asked to act quickly or urgently
Someone asks for bank details, passwords, or PINs
You are offered loans, grants, or prizes that seem too good to be true
You receive unexpected contact from someone claiming to be official

How to protect yourself

Never share personal or financial details with someone you do not trust
Do not click on links or open attachments from unknown messages
Take time to check if the contact is genuine
Speak to someone you trust or get advice if you are unsure

Report suspicious messages

If you receive a suspicious email, text, or website link, report it to the Government’s phishing service:

https://www.gov.uk/report-suspicious-emails-websites-phishing

Report scams and get local advice

Citizens Advice (Devon) – free, confidential advice on scams and money concerns
www.citizensadvice.org.uk or call 0808 223 1133
Action Fraud – national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime
www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040
Devon & Cornwall Police – if a crime is in progress or urgent, call 999.
Otherwise report via 101
Mid Devon District Council works with partner organisations, including Trading Standards, to help protect residents. Contact the Welfare Support Team if you are unsure where to report or need support.

If you think you have been scammed

Contact your bank immediately. The sooner you act, the better chance you have of stopping further loss. Support is available, and you will not be judged.