Avoiding Scams
                  Pyramid schemes, prize draws and bogus sales callers - it's 
                    difficult to know how to handle these situations, but fortunately 
                    a lot of scams and bad purchases can be avoided when we know 
                    what to look for. 
                  Most of us can protect ourselves from scams when we have 
                    the right information and advice. Download these free information 
                    guides for a better understanding of how to stay safe and 
                    what to do if you, a relative, or an older person you care 
                    for is tricked by dishonest claims. 
                  Avoiding 
                    scams (PDF, 495KB) - this practical guide can help 
                    you to identify a potential scam by telling you what to look 
                    for. Our handy 'scams checklist' is a useful way to work out 
                    whether you may have been approached by a dishonest claim. 
                    We can also advise you on what to do if you've found yourself 
                    victim of a scam. 
                  Your 
                    consumer rights (PDF, 980KB) - find out your rights 
                    and options when you choose where to buy from, and what your 
                    consumer rights are if you need to make a complaint. This 
                    guide aims to give you the confidence to shop easily and safely. 
                  
                  Staying 
                    safe (PDF, 665KB) - this guide provides practical 
                    steps you can take to feel safer, both at home and when you're 
                    out. It looks at ways to secure your home and safety on the 
                    doorstep and explains what to do if you're a victim of a crime.
                  Internet 
                    security (PDF, 947KB) - using the internet safely 
                    means using the common sense we already use in everyday life. 
                    This guide shows how to apply these rules online so that you 
                    can protect yourself, and your computer. 
                  If you'd prefer, you can order our information guides through 
                    the post by calling 0800 169 6565 and any of our guides can 
                    be posted to you free of charge. 
                   Scams checklist 
                  Always stop, think and be sceptical before signing anything 
                    or handing over any money. If an exciting offer seems too 
                    good to be true, think about the following warning signs and 
                    ask yourself if it is a scam: "