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Online scams resources

If your child is a victim of online scams, or if you’d like to learn more, the following organisations and scams resources can help.

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Useful resources

The following resources can help you tackle online scams and get additional support. See how you can report scams and get help managing your and your child’s wellbeing.

The following organisations have additional information on recognising scams and taking action to protect you and your child.

There are various ways to report scams online to help you get support. Use the following reporting tools in addition to reporting on-platform and contacting financial institutions like banks where necessary.

  • Action Fraud: Report any kind of scam or fraud that happens online. You can also call 0300 123 2040.
  • Internet Watch Foundation (IWF): Report scams like sextortion or that otherwise involve child sexual abuse images or videos.
  • Report Harmful Content: Report scams where threats are made, someone is impersonating another person or the scammer is otherwise abusive in some way.

If your child is a victim of a scam, it will impact not just their wellbeing but yours and potentially the whole family’s as well. Use the following services to get support for your child and yourself.

Counselling services for children

  • Childline: Children can talk to a counsellor through call (0800 1111) or chat, or they can use the message boards to talk through their experience.
  • The Mix: A helpline chat and messenger service for under-25s on a range of issues.
  • Meic: Children in Wales can call or WhatsApp message 080 880 23456 to talk to someone. They can also use the online chat or text message service (07943 114 449).
  • Kooth: Children can sign up to this free service which has tools to support wellbeing, including 1:1 support.
  • Ditch the Label: An organisation with advice and forums that young people can engage with to find support.
  • YoungMinds: An organisation with advice and information to help children support their mental health.

Support for parents and carers