A scam is when criminals target ordinary people to raise money for illegal activities. They get their money by sending letters, emails, making phone calls or knocking on your door. They trick people into sending or giving them money. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Put letters in the bin, do not reply to emails and say no to anonymous callers. Never give money to someone you do not know well. Never give your bank details over the phone. Never send money to get a prize. If you get a phone call you were not expecting tell them you are not interested and hang up. If someone phones claiming to be from a bank or utilities company ask them if you can phone them back at their office. Do not let any unscheduled visitors, traders or salespeople into your home as they could try and persuade you to pay for fake products or services that they have no intention of providing. Tell them you are not interested. If you have lost money to scams please do not be afraid to ask for help. Scammers are very clever and anyone can be tricked by them. Don't send any more money. Take any leaflets you have received to your local Citizens Advice Bureau.