What is phishing?
Checked by The Proofmark editorial team against our methodology before publishing
The Proofmark · Our methodology
Phishing is a scam that borrows a trusted name. The sender may pretend to be your bank, a delivery firm or someone you know.
The aim is to get your private details, money or access to your device. The UK NCSC explains phishing as a trick that can arrive by email, text or phone.
A simple example
Imagine a text saying your bank account is blocked. It asks you to open a link and sign in. The page looks familiar, but your password goes to a scammer.
This is an example, not a report about a named bank.
What are smishing and vishing?
Smishing means phishing by text message. Vishing uses a voice call. These names describe how the request reaches you.
What makes a message suspicious?
A demand to act fast, share a code or use an unfamiliar link should make you pause. A logo or correct spelling does not prove who sent it.
Check through the real app or a contact route you already trust.
Already clicked or shared something?
Read what to do after clicking a phishing link. The steps depend on whether you shared a password, paid or installed an app.
Request a free call if you need help understanding what happened. If money or card details are at risk, contact your bank now.
Where to go in your country
Scams cross borders. The people who can do something about them do not. Choose your country below, or change it if our guess is wrong.
Choose your country to see local contacts. If it is not listed, you can ask our team for help.
🇬🇧 The United Kingdom
🔎 Check the firm
FCA Firm Checker — Search the firm name, its website, or the reference number it gave you.
🚨 Report it
Report Fraud (City of London Police) — Report online or call 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101.
↩ Ask for your money back
Financial Ombudsman Service — Complain to the firm first, then bring it here. Free, and it can order the firm to pay.
Every address above was opened and checked by us on 30 September 2026. Tell us if one has moved.
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