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Fraud, scams and financial abuse

  • Help recognising scams and suspicious requests

  • Support if someone is pressuring you

  • Time and space to make your own decisions

Support for your needs

Fraud and financial abuse can take many forms, including pressure from someone you know. If something doesn't feel right, we're here to listen and help you find support.

Spotting scams

  • When unexpected calls, emails or texts make you suspicious.

Pressure from others

  • When someone you know is pushing you to make decisions about your money or home.

Personal information

  • When someone asks for personal or financial details you're unsure about sharing.

Feeling worried or unsafe

  • When fear, threats or secrecy make it difficult to ask for help or speak up.

Making things easier, every step of the way

If you're worried about a scam, pressure from someone else or financial abuse, you can raise your concerns with us at any stage.

When you contact us
Tell us if something feels suspicious or someone is putting you under pressure.

When we talk things through
We'll listen without judgement, explain things clearly and give you time to decide.

When you need further help
We can help you find independent support or explain how to report your concerns.

Spot the warning signs

Key will never ask you to:

Share your banking passwords, PINs or security codes
Move money to a 'safe' account
Make an immediate decision about your money or home

Before you respond to a call, email or text

Check who’s contacting you and whether the request is genuine. Don't open unexpected links or attachments, and don't feel pressured to act quickly.

Someone you trust, by your side

You can involve a family member, friend or someone you trust when speaking with us. If you're worried someone is pressuring you, you can also ask to speak with us privately. Your wishes come first.

Worried about fraud or financial abuse?

You don't need to be certain something is wrong. Tell us what's concerning you and we'll help you understand what support's available.

Ask us for support

Helpful resources and guidance

Find guidance on spotting scams, protecting your information and getting help with financial abuse or pressure from others.

Take Five to Stop Fraud

Take Five to Stop Fraud

Scammers may pretend to be someone you trust or pressure you to act quickly. Taking a moment to question unexpected requests can help protect you.

Stop. Challenge. Protect.

Find out more about Take Five

Honest | Personal | Trusted

Our values shape how we support you, especially when you're worried about suspicious activity or pressure from others.

Honest

  • Clear, open conversations

  • We'll explain things clearly and be open about what we can do to help.

Personal

  • Support that puts you first

  • We'll listen to your concerns, respect your circumstances and help you feel heard.

Trusted

  • Your choices matter

  • We'll respect your wishes and take concerns about pressure from others seriously.

Fraud, scams and financial abuse frequently asked questions

Be cautious of unexpected calls, emails or texts asking for personal information or money. Check the full sender email address, not just the name shown, and be wary of unfamiliar links or attachments. If you're unsure, contact the organisation using details from its official website rather than the message.

You have the right to make your own decisions. If someone is putting you under pressure, tell us. We can listen to your concerns and help you find appropriate support.

Yes. If you'd prefer to speak privately, let us know. We'll discuss how to arrange a conversation where you feel comfortable sharing your concerns.

If you've lost money or shared financial details, contact your bank or payment provider immediately. Report the scam to Report Fraud, or Police Scotland on 101 if you're in Scotland.

If the scam involves Key or someone claiming to represent us, contact us directly using the details on our website.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.

You don't need proof to ask for help. Financial abuse can include someone controlling your money or pressuring you into decisions. You can contact the police for advice or speak to Hourglass, which supports older people experiencing abuse. If you're in immediate danger, call 999.

We're here to help

If you're worried about a scam, financial abuse or pressure from someone else, you don't have to face it alone. Tell us what's concerning you and we'll listen, take your concerns seriously and help you understand what to do next.

Ask us for support
Page last updated: Tuesday 27 October 2026