Scam alert update: July 2026

Scammers are finding increasingly convincing ways to catch people off guard. This month we’ve seen criminals posing as delivery drivers, fake Apple security alerts designed to steal personal information, and a rise in scams targeting holidaymakers and online shoppers. 

Here are some of the latest scams to watch out for this month. 

Fake Deliveroo drivers

One of the most alarming scams this month involves criminals posing as Deliveroo riders to gain access to people’s homes. 

Police are investigating an attempted break-in where two men wearing Deliveroo-branded clothing allegedly tried to force entry to a property. Deliveroo has confirmed that no riders were operating in the area at the time, highlighting how easily criminals can obtain branded clothing and use it to appear legitimate. 

Remember that genuine delivery drivers should only arrive if you’ve placed an order. If you’re not expecting a delivery, don’t feel pressured to open the door. Ask who they are through a closed door or doorbell camera, and if anything feels suspicious, contact the police. 

Apple scams

Fraudsters are impersonating Apple with convincing emails claiming your iCloud storage is full, your payment method has expired or your account will be suspended unless you act immediately. Some messages even warn that your photos and files will be deleted within 48 hours unless you click a link. 

The links lead to fake Apple websites designed to steal your Apple ID, passwords and payment details. 

If you receive one of these emails, don’t click any links. Instead, log into your Apple account directly through the official website or Settings app to check whether there’s really a problem. 

Shopping and account scams

Police are warning shoppers to be extra vigilant after a number of scams targeted popular online retailers and marketplaces this month.

Argos scam

One scam involves fraudsters accessing Argos accounts, using login details thought to have been exposed in previous data breaches. Once inside an account, criminals may attempt to place orders or access saved personal information. 

If you discover someone has accessed your shopping account, change your password immediately, check for any unauthorised orders or changes to your account details, and contact the retailer as soon as possible. If you reuse passwords across multiple websites, consider changing them and enable two-factor authentication wherever it’s available. 

Vinted scam

Vinted users are being targeted with fake emails claiming their accounts have been suspended.

The messages urge recipients to click a link and log in, but the link leads to a phishing website designed to steal account credentials.

If you receive an unexpected email asking you to log in, reset your password or confirm your account details, don’t click the link. Instead, visit the retailer or marketplace by typing the official web address into your browser or using the official app.  

Amazon scam

Consumer champion Martin Lewis recently revealed he almost fell victim to a convincing phone scam after receiving a call claiming someone had ordered an iPhone through his Amazon account. The caller tried to pressure him into taking immediate action, but he recognised the warning signs before giving away any information. 

Whether it’s a fake email, text or phone call, be wary of unexpected messages creating a sense of urgency.

If you’re concerned about an order or account, contact the company using its official website, app or published customer service number rather than responding to the message or caller. 

DVLA scams

Drivers are also being warned about a fresh wave of scam texts and emails claiming to come from the DVLA. Many tell motorists they’re due a vehicle tax refund or need to urgently update their details. 

The DVLA will never ask for your bank details or personal information by text or email.

If you’re unsure whether a message is genuine, ignore the link and manage your vehicle information through the official GOV.UK website instead. 

Holiday booking scams

As the summer holidays get underway, Santander says losses to travel scams increased by almost a third during the last quarter. Fraudsters are advertising fake package holidays, villa rentals and discounted accommodation before disappearing once deposits have been paid. 

Be particularly cautious of “limited time” offers or messages claiming there’s only one room left. 

Before paying, verify the booking independently by contacting the hotel, airline or travel company using details from its official website. You can also reverse image search holiday photos to see whether they’ve been copied from another listing. 

Stay one step ahead

Scammers continue to adapt their tactics, but most still rely on creating urgency, exploiting trust and catching people when they’re distracted. As always, taking a few extra moments to stop and verify could prevent a costly mistake. 

For clear, practical scam updates throughout 2026, and guidance on your rights if something goes wrong, sign up to the Join the Claim newsletter. 

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.

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