New 'Scamwatch' topic?

[ANightmareBeforeChristmas]

Hi, MNHQ - it's been mentioned on a thread about a scam that currently is doing the rounds, that a Scamwatch topic would be a good idea.

MNetters could use this for 'Is this a scam?' queries and also to post warnings about when they have been scammed. It would be a useful resource for MNetters to check before using websites they were unsure about.

Is this something you would consider?

I posted this on the other thread -
The thing is, there are potentially infinite websites people can make, so if it's not on this Scamwatch section people may believe it's real. Surely it's better to take approx 15 mins of your life to learn about URLs and remember to Google before typing your bank card details into an electronic form?

I've never ever seen a scammy email/link that had a realistic looking URL.

Basic things like look for the padlock symbol when typing in payment details, not paying for things to strangers on FB marketplace before seeing what you're buying, good strategies for checking what's legit and what isn't, what paid ads might come up on a Google search that charge for things that are actually free (govt services, EHICs etc).

Action Fraud website used to be good for that.

Good to have as many reminders about potential and increasing scams I think. Perhaps MN can also put up a permanent sticker/header at the top of the topic emphasising that the list is not a complete one and add a clear warning on how to keep safe when buying online. 🌹

Hi OP

Thanks for the suggestion! We'll keep an eye on this thread to see what the level of interest is.

Thanks @LilyMumsnet