At Wells Gibson, our focus is helping you make confident financial decisions, and that includes protecting what you’ve built.
We’re seeing a rise in increasingly sophisticated cyber scams across the wider environment, particularly at times when life is busy, routines shift, or attention is divided.
Importantly, these are not related to Wells Gibson’s systems or the platforms we use, but rather external attempts designed to impersonate trusted organisations and individuals.
The aim here isn’t to alarm, but to highlight a few simple habits that can help you stay one step ahead.
1. Be mindful of unexpected emails and messages
Fraudulent emails, texts and even phone calls are becoming more convincing, particularly with the use of AI to mimic genuine communication styles.
Common examples include:
- Delivery or courier updates
- Investment or account “alerts”
- Requests that appear to come from banks or professional contacts
A simple rule of thumb:
If something asks you to act quickly, share information, or move money – please pause.
- Avoid clicking links or opening attachments from unfamiliar sources
- Where possible, access accounts directly via your usual website or app
- If something appears to come from us or another trusted party, verify it using known contact details
2. Take extra care when making online payments
With more transactions happening online, fraudsters are increasingly targeting payment details.
A few small precautions can make a big difference:
- Use well known, secure websites (look for “https” and a padlock symbol)
- Credit cards typically offer greater protection than debit cards
- Be cautious with gift cards or unusual payment requests
- Keep an eye on transactions – spotting something early makes it far easier to resolve
3. Keep your passwords and access secure
Your online security is only as strong as your access controls.
We recommend:
- Using strong, unique passwords for important accounts
- Enabling two-factor authentication (where available)
- Avoiding reusing passwords across multiple services
If you use platforms such as Microsoft 365, ensuring devices automatically lock or log out after periods of inactivity can provide an additional layer of protection, particularly when travelling or using shared environments.
4. Travelling or spending time away from home
Time away, whether for holidays or extended travel, can subtly increase risk, particularly if financial activity isn’t being monitored.
A few simple habits can help you stay in control:
- Check in on your accounts periodically
A brief review of recent transactions once or twice a week is usually sufficient to spot anything unusual early. - Enable transaction notifications
Real-time alerts can provide reassurance without needing to actively check accounts. - Use secure connections
Avoid accessing financial accounts on public Wi-Fi where possible. Mobile data or secure networks are preferable. - Protect your devices
Ensure phones and laptops are locked with passcodes or biometric security and set to lock automatically. - Notify your bank before travelling
This can reduce the likelihood of genuine transactions being flagged or declined. - Pause before responding to urgency
Travel periods can be targeted by scammers, particularly messages that create pressure to act quickly.
A quick reminder from us
Wells Gibson will never:
- Ask you to transfer money urgently via email or text
- Request passwords or full security details
- Send unexpected links asking you to log in to your accounts
If you’re ever unsure, please just contact us directly, we’re always happy to check.
A final thought
Financial peace of mind isn’t just about planning — it’s also about protection.
The systems, processes and small checks you experience are all part of ensuring your financial life remains secure. Combined with a few simple habits, they provide a strong foundation for long term confidence.
And as always, if you’re ever unsure about something, our team are always happy to help.
Risk Warning
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is intended to support general awareness of online security and fraud prevention. It does not constitute financial advice or a comprehensive guide to all potential risks.
While the guidance included is designed to help reduce the likelihood of fraud, no system or precaution can provide complete protection against cybercrime. Fraudsters continually evolve their methods, and individuals may still be exposed to risks despite taking reasonable care.
Any actions taken based on this information are at your own discretion. Wells Gibson cannot be held responsible for losses resulting from fraudulent activity where recommended precautions have not been followed or where circumstances are beyond reasonable control.
If you are unsure about any communication, transaction, or request involving your finances, you should verify it using trusted contact details or seek professional guidance before taking action.
Wells Gibson Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number 731027).
