Funding6 min read
Funding scam warning signs
Recognise pressure, fake authority and requests that put your money or account security at risk.
What you will leave with
- No legitimate application needs your PIN or one-time code
- Verify organisations independently
- Urgency is a reason to slow down
Step 01
High-risk promises
Treat certainty and secrecy as warning signs.
- Guaranteed approval
- An upfront payment to unlock a grant
- Unrealistic returns or awards
- Pressure to act immediately
Step 02
Identity and payment warnings
A logo or social profile does not prove legitimacy.
- Social-media-only contact
- Payment to a personal account
- Copied government branding
- No official site or written terms
Step 03
Verify safely
Find the organisation independently instead of using the message link.
- Use published contact details
- Check the exact website address
- Confirm the programme and deadline
- Never share passwords, PINs or security codes
If money or account access may already be compromised, contact the relevant bank or provider through its official channel promptly.
Take the next practical step.
Use this guide as a decision aid, then record the action, owner and date that move the work forward.