RAC warns not to get caught out by scammers fraudulently using its brand to steal personal details

The RAC is warning people to be wary of scam phishing emails fraudulently using its brand to steal people’s personal details.

The motoring services company has been informed of numerous versions of emails offering the chance to win or be sent car emergency kits.

One email offered an exclusive car emergency kit containing first aid essentials, roadside tools, reflective safety gear and repair tools in exchange for completing a short survey.

Crucially, the email included several American words and spellings – ‘jumper’ cables, ‘tire’ repair tools and emergency ‘flashlight’.

The RAC is not currently offering any free car emergency kits and is advising people not to respond to any emails like this.

The RAC says: “In most cases people should be able to work out from looking at the address that the sender is not the RAC and that the email is fraudulent. Hovering over the URL will usually reveal a dubious-looking address.

“Another tell-tale sign for spotting a fake email is the use of poor or odd spellings. Sometimes scammers also create fake social media profiles with fake incentives, but it’s important not to click on any hyperlinks.”

The RAC urges people to exercise caution with any unsolicited emails they receive offering prizes or big discounts. It says: “If an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.”

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What is a phishing email?

A phishing email is a fraudulent message that is designed to trick a user into revealing or sharing personal or sensitive information.

It can also be used as part of a cyberattack, causing harmful actions to be taken on a PC or network.

Stolen data, login details, and customer details are just some examples of the data that the attackers are after.

There is often the need for ‘urgent action’ to stop a threat or provide sensitive information. They can also include fake links.

Other phishing emails will include attachments that, when opened, can infect a computer.

Who do people send phishing emails?

The aim of the ender is to acquire personal information in order to take money and important data.

It can also be done as part of a cyber attack to corrupt a digital system.

What should you do if you’re a victim of phishing emails?

If you think you are being targeted by phishing emails, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or report it on the GOV.UK website.

Member of the public can also forward suspicious emails to [email protected] and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will investigate it.

How to protect yourself from phishing emails

Users should verify the sender, by checking the sender’s information carefully – and never click any suspicious links.

Never share personal information, passwords, or anything that can be used against you or your company.

The use of anti-virus software can help protect against the majority of cyber attacks.