The shapes scams take
- Impersonation: a ‘bank’, ‘police’, ‘courier’ or ‘electricity board’ that creates fear or urgency.
- Reward bait: lottery, refund, cashback or job offers that need an upfront payment.
- Investment traps: guaranteed high returns, often through a friendly chat group.
- Romance and trust building over days or weeks, then a sudden money request.
The tell-tale signs
- Pressure to act immediately and secrecy (‘don’t tell anyone’).
- A request to move to WhatsApp, install an app, or share a screen.
- Any request for an OTP, PIN, or to scan a QR to ‘receive’ money.