These pages are a compact guide to recognising the early signs of falling victim to online fraud.

Incidents of online fraud are increasing every year. Criminals are always on the lookout for new ways to carry out fraud and will use different methods to contact potential victims.

Use the links below to see advice for some of the more common types of fraud, along with how you can report incidents.

Some key golden rules to follow for all types of potential fraud are:

• If something doesn't look or feel right, it probably isn't.
• Never be rushed into doing something - take your time to review all of the information.
• Never give your personal details, such as your address or bank account information to anyone you do not know.
• Never give out your passwords, pass phrases or other security information.
• Use strong passwords - remember, use three random words or phrases that only mean something to you.
• Add two-factor authentication to your online accounts, such as by adding your phone number, to prevent any unauthorised changes.

How to report

Please report all incidents to Action Fraud:

Telephone: 0300 123 2040

Website: www.actionfraud.police.uk

Incidents can also be reported directly to Cheshire Constabulary:

Telephone: 101

Website: You can use our reporting section to report fraud online

Talk to our Cybercrime team