People are just realising 5 dangerous text red flags that steal your money – look out and delete any on your phone now

EXPERTS have revealed the five key signs you need to look out for to avoid financial ruin.

They can come in all sorts of guises, either in an email on your Gmail account, a text or WhatsApp message and of course a phone call.

The National Cyber Security Centre – part of GCHQ – has shared important tips on how to spot a scam before it’s too late.

Authority

Cyber thieves will often pretend to be from a recognised name to lure you in.

This can range from your bank or a Government department like HMRC, or even a doctor or solicitor.

Be sure the person is who they say they are.

Urgency

Another tactic hackers use is urgency.

They might say you have 24 hours or have to do something immediately.

This is so you rush into it without thinking it through.

Emotion

Fraudsters will also try to get to you.

If the message creates panic, fear, hope or curiosity it may well be a scam message.

Scarcity

Scarcity is a tactic we saw cruelly used during the pandemic, with thieves trying to sell vaccines.

They’ll use anything in short supply as an opportunity, such as concert tickets for a sold out show.

Current events

Finally is it related to something going on in the world right now?

Cunning con-artists will tape into real world events to make their ruse seem more relevant.

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