Phishing and scams
At the RNLI, we are committed to protecting our supporters, staff and volunteers. Unfortunately, phishing scams and other types of cyber-crime are becoming increasingly common, and it’s important to stay vigilant. Here are some practical tips:
Recognise the signs of phishing and scams
Unexpected requests: Be cautious of suspicious communications, both online and in person, where you may be asked for personal information. For example being asked for your bank account details to make an urgent donation, enter an unexpected competition or take part in a fundraising event.
Suspicious links: Hover over links to check their destination before clicking. For example mli.org (using an m) looks very similar to rnli.org.
Poor grammar and spelling: If there are a lot of spelling and grammar mistakes, this might be a sign of phishing.
What to do if you suspect a scam
Do not respond: Avoid replying to the email or message. Do not forward, click on any links or download any attachments.
Verify the source: If you're not sure if an email is genuine, contact the person or company by a different method. For example, if your bank sends you a text asking for information, phone your branch to check if it's genuine.
Report it: Send the suspicious email to [email protected]. It is important suspicious communications are reported as the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) can remove scam email addresses and websites. If you think you may have been a victim of fraud or cyber-crime and live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, you should report this to Action Fraud on their website or by calling 0300 123 2040. If you live in Scotland, report it to Police Scotland by calling 101. If you live in the Republic of Ireland, report it to the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) by calling 353 1 666 3776.
Stay informed
Regular updates: Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for genuine updates about our lifesaving activities and how you can support us.
Education: Familiarise yourself with common phishing tactics and how to avoid them.
Your support is vital to our mission of saving lives at sea. By staying vigilant and informed, you can help protect yourself and ensure your contributions continue to make a difference.