British email users are increasingly targeted by scam emails, with a record 43 million suspicious emails reported to Action Fraud between January and May 2025. This alarming trend underscores the importance of vigilance when checking email inboxes.
A recent alert from Action Fraud highlights the effectiveness of reporting suspicious emails, as over 42 million reports to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service have resulted in the removal of 400,000 scam websites by the National Cyber Security Centre.
To combat online fraud, individuals are encouraged to forward dubious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. The National Cyber Security Centre warns that clicking on links in scam emails can lead to malware downloads or the theft of personal information, a tactic commonly known as ‘phishing.’
Major companies like Netflix and Spotify are frequent targets of phishing emails, often falsely claiming subscription cancellations. Amazon has also issued a warning about a scam involving fake Prime membership renewal emails, advising customers to verify their status through the official Amazon app or website.
With the prevalence of malicious emails, it is crucial to exercise caution and refrain from clicking on suspicious links. By promptly reporting phishing attempts, individuals can protect themselves and others from falling victim to cybercrime online.