Common types of fraud targeting the public – And how investigators can help

Fraud is a growing concern worldwide, with criminals using increasingly sophisticated methods to deceive individuals. From online scams to financial fraud, members of the public must remain vigilant to protect themselves. Below are some of the most common types of fraud affecting individuals today—and how professional investigators can assist victims in recovering lost funds and identifying fraudsters.

1. Phishing scams

Phishing is a fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, and bank details, by pretending to be a trustworthy entity. Scammers often use emails, text messages, or phone calls that appear to be from legitimate organisations like banks, government agencies, or well-known companies.

How to avoid it:

• Never click on suspicious links in emails or texts.
• Verify the sender by contacting the organisation directly.
• Enable multi-factor authentication on accounts.

How investigators can help:

• Conduct digital forensics to trace phishing emails and websites.
• Identify the origin of fraudulent messages and gather evidence for law enforcement.
• Assist victims in securing compromised accounts and preventing further breaches.

2. Investment and cryptocurrency scams

With the rise of digital assets, fraudsters have exploited people’s interest in investments and cryptocurrency. These scams often promise high returns with little risk. ‘Pig-butchering scams’—a form of crypto fraud—see scammers build trust with victims over time before persuading them to invest large sums into fake platforms.

How to avoid it:

• Be sceptical of schemes that guarantee high returns.
• Verify investment platforms through official regulatory bodies.
• Avoid sharing personal details with strangers online.

How investigators can help:

• Trace cryptocurrency transactions to uncover where funds have been sent.
• Work with financial crime experts to track fraudulent investment schemes.
• Provide intelligence to authorities to aid in the recovery of lost assets.

3. Romance scams

Fraudsters use dating sites, social media, and messaging apps to build romantic relationships with victims before tricking them into sending money. They often claim to be in distress or need financial assistance for emergencies.

How to avoid it:

• Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Be wary of individuals who avoid video calls or meetings.
• Conduct background checks if you have suspicions.

How investigators can help:

• Conduct discreet background checks to verify the identity of online partners.
• Use Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) to uncover connections to known scam networks.
• Gather evidence to help victims report fraud and prevent further exploitation.

4. Authorised push payment (APP) fraud

APP fraud occurs when victims are tricked into transferring money to scammers who pose as legitimate businesses, lawyers, or even family members. This often involves impersonation scams, such as fraudsters pretending to be from banks warning of unauthorised transactions.

How to avoid it:

• Verify payment requests by calling the recipient directly.
• Be cautious of urgent payment demands.
• Check bank security protocols before transferring funds.

How investigators can help:

• Track financial transactions and identify where the money has been moved.
• Work with law enforcement to investigate fraudulent bank accounts.
• Provide expert witness testimony in legal cases to support victims.

5. Identity theft and impersonation

Criminals steal personal information to open bank accounts, apply for loans, or commit other fraud in a victim’s name. This often occurs through data breaches, phishing, or social engineering tactics.

How to avoid it:

• Use strong passwords and change them regularly.
• Shred documents containing personal information.
• Monitor bank statements and credit reports for unusual activity.

How investigators can help:

• Conduct deep-dive investigations into fraudulent accounts and transactions.
• Identify data breaches and security vulnerabilities.
• Assist in reclaiming stolen identities and preventing further misuse.

6. Courier fraud

Scammers, often posing as police officers or bank officials, contact victims and instruct them to withdraw cash or hand over bank cards to a ‘courier’ who will collect them. They may claim the victim’s bank account has been compromised.

How to avoid it:

• Police or banks will never ask for bank cards or PINs.
• Never give cash or financial details to couriers.
• Verify any claims directly with your bank.

How investigators can help:

• Use surveillance and field investigations to track fraudsters posing as couriers.
• Work with authorities to dismantle organised crime rings.
• Provide victims with security advice to prevent further targeting.

7. Fake online shopping and auction scams

Fraudulent sellers create fake websites or listings for popular products, offering discounts to lure buyers. Once payment is made, the goods are never delivered, or counterfeit items are sent.

How to avoid it:

• Only buy from reputable websites with secure payment methods.
• Check reviews and seller ratings before purchasing.
• Use credit cards for added protection against fraud.

How investigators can help:

• Conduct digital investigations to identify fraudulent sellers.
• Trace scam websites and uncover linked criminal networks.
• Assist in recovering funds through legal action or negotiations.

8. Tech support and remote access scams

Scammers pretend to be from well-known tech companies, claiming that a victim’s computer has a virus. They persuade the victim to install remote access software, giving them control over the device and access to sensitive information.

How to avoid it:

• Legitimate tech companies will not contact you unexpectedly.
• Never grant remote access to unknown individuals.
• If in doubt, contact the official customer support team directly.

How investigators can help:

• Conduct forensic analysis of hacked devices.
• Track the origins of scam operations to assist law enforcement.
• Provide cybersecurity recommendations to prevent future attacks.

Final thoughts

Fraudsters continually evolve their methods, preying on trust and urgency. The best defence is awareness—by recognising the warning signs and staying cautious, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these scams. Always verify before you trust, and when in doubt, seek professional advice.

How Conflict International can help:

Conflict International specialises in investigating fraud, tracing financial trails, and identifying scammers. Our expert investigators work discreetly to uncover the truth, recover lost assets where possible, and support victims in taking legal action. If you have been affected by fraud, contact us for a confidential consultation.