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Advance Fee Scams in the UK: Recognise, Report and Recover

If you have to pay to receive money, stop.

Advance Fee Scams in the UK: Recognise, Report and Recover Property Legal, Risk & Compliance

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Fraud · Advance fees

Advance fee scams

Loansfee first
Rentalsdeposits
Prizes& inheritances
Claimsbank
In short: Advance fee fraud asks you to pay a fee to unlock something bigger: a loan, an inheritance, a lottery win, a job or a rental. In the UK it's illegal for credit brokers to charge upfront fees in the way loan scammers do, and genuine lenders don't ask for "insurance" or "admin" fees by transfer before lending. If you've paid, contact your bank about reimbursement and report to Action Fraud. For rentals, never pay before viewing and checking the landlord. Fraser Bond is a property agency, not a recovery firm; this is independent guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Is paying a fee for a loan normal?

Not upfront; that's a classic scam.

Can I get my money back?

Ask your bank about APP reimbursement.

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