Fraud prevention

Coronavirus scams: protect yourself

Fraudsters are sending out coronavirus-themed phishing emails in an attempt to trick people into opening malicious attachments or revealing sensitive personal and financial details. Watch out for scam messages:  Don’t click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails, and never respond to unsolicited messages and calls that ask for your personal or financial details. Prevent Fraud by improving your processes and follow some simple tips from the Shared Anti-Fraud Service.

Invoice scams: protect yourself and your school

Don’t be caught out!

Invoice fraud is a growing problem. Don’t be a victim – be aware of it and have the necessary measures in place to help ensure you’re able to spot it.
Prevent invoice fraud by improving your processes and following some of the simple steps highlighted here.

Tips to protect your school

• take care when emails are received from unknown suppliers, as your click into the company m may lead to scam invoices being sent.
• check invoices thoroughly before authorising payment, to ensure that they are from genuine suppliers and that the bank account details, amounts being claimed, and description of the goods and services match your records and purchase orders.
• contact suppliers using phone numbers independently obtained to confirm ‘change of account’ requests received in their name.
• introduce robust verification processes (such as a dual authorisation process) to change supplier account details in your accounting system and for large payments.
• inform suppliers when a payment has been made. 

Payment diversion fraud

Fraudsters are placing themselves in the middle of transactions between parents and schools. The fraudster contacts the parents outlining details and payment instructions for the latest school fees. Initial contact appears to primarily be made via email and often from the school’s own compromised email system. 

Protection/prevention advice

• having an up-to-date virus protection
• install software updates
• don’t click on any links or download attachments 

Stay fraud aware

Gov.uk: Assets: Watch out for ‘Payment Diversion Fraud’ - keep your school funds safe