Common Types of Ukash Scams
Ukash was created to facilitate online payments without the need for a credit rating, credit or debit cards, or even a bank account. Ukash vouchers are purchased with cash, with no need to reveal any financial details and provide a secure solution regulated by the UK FSA (Financial Services Authority).
You simply purchase a Ukash voucher bearing a 19 digit code and use the voucher on sites that accept Ukash payment. It is as simple as selecting Ukash as the method of payment and entering your code and the voucher value. If your voucher is for the exact value of your purchase, you’re done after this stage. If you require change, you will receive a change voucher with a new 19 digit code. This voucher can be used later in the same way.
Security Tips
Ukash is like cash and similar precautions should be taken to keep it safe. Being aware of the possible scams is one of the best ways to avoid them. You can follow the latest Ukash scams news and articles at the Ukash Scam Blog. The following security tips will help you keep your Ukash safe from some of the most common scams.
Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software which holds the data contained by the computer system ransom and requires payment to restore the data. This may encrypt the user’s personal files and disable or lock essential systems. The user may need to buy a code, or a removal or decryption tool to “clean” the system.
Reclaim bank charges scam
Ignore mails or calls claiming that you’re entitled to a refund on overpaid bank charges. These will typically come from a scammer claiming to represent a bank, official agency or law firm and will require all your personal details, and may claim a charge for their services.
Holiday scams
With the huge amount of shopping online these days, the holiday season has become a scammer’s paradise. Beware of leaving your personal details in any form, whether this is a feedback form or a popup ad that takes you to a site, as these may be fronts for scamming activity. Remember, official entities will not request sensitive information from you by email.
Loan scams
“Third party consultants” offering you loans approved in a single call whereafter the scammer will solicit personal details, including social security number and bank account information, and may even request an advance payment or deposit. If you are in need of a loan, consult your bank face to face.
Money mule scams
Money mules transfer stolen property or money from country to country, also electronically. The process conceals the true identity of the scammer from the victim.
Classified ads scams
A customer claims to live abroad and sends a cheque to cover a purchase plus shipping. Once the cheque clears, the customer cancels the order and requests and receives a refund. Much later it transpires that the cheque was forged; the vendor is out of pocket and the customer untraceable.
eBay
eBay does not currently support Ukash as a method of payment; any eBay seller claiming to accept payment by Ukash is not genuine.
Mystery shopping jobs
you will be sent travellers’ cheques, money orders or vouchers, often forgeries, and told to cash the cheques or use the vouchers at certain stores, retaining a percentage as your wage of commission. The balance is to be transferred according to instructions.
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