Advice for consumers

One of the most widespread is "phishing", where an email appears to come from your bank, a company you deal with, a government department or a social networking site. It directs you to a fake website that asks for personal details such as account numbers, passwords or credit card details. These are then used to commit identity fraud. Never click links in unsolicited emails or texts, and always go directly to a company's website rather than following a link.

These claim you have won a large sum of money, often using the name of a foreign lottery. They usually ask for your personal information and a fee to claim your prize, though some only ask for this at a later stage. If you haven't entered a lottery, you haven't won one.

Businesses should be wary of offers for seemingly free advertising in directories, where the true cost is hidden in the small print. Another common scam involves a phone call claiming your business agreed to sponsor a worthy cause and that payment is now due.

A caller falsely claims to be from Microsoft or a similar company and asks for remote access to your computer to fix an alleged problem. They may then demand payment or install malicious software. Legitimate technology companies will never contact you out of the blue to tell you your computer has a problem.

These emails or letters claim to come from an overseas bank employee wanting to move a large sum of unclaimed money with your help. They are designed to get you to share your personal and bank details.

Some mailings offer cures for illnesses or guaranteed slimming results. These products are unlikely to have been properly tested or proven effective, and can be expensive. Be very cautious about any product making dramatic health claims.