We occasionally receive reports from members of fraudulent schemes targeting counsellors, such as scams involving bogus clients and fake cheques.
While scams are nothing new, technology has made it easier for criminals to target you and your business. If you advertise your services on your own website, on an online directory or on social media, then your contact details are available to criminals as well as potential clients or employers.
Some scammers focus on specific professionals such as counsellors, carrying out detailed background research in order to appear more credible.
We'll keep this page updated with details of any reports we receive. If you have any questions or concerns you can call our Customer Services team on 01455 883300 or email us.
Reporting fraud and scams
If you've been targeted by a scam, or are the victim of fraud, go to the Action Fraud website for information and advice.
You can report the scam using the online reporting tool (you'll need to create an account) or by telephone.
You can also report scam emails, texts, websites and calls to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). This is a UK government organisation that has the power to investigate and remove scam email addresses and websites.
Email marketing
Members have informed us that their Directory contact details have been used by companies for marketing purposes. As this information is in the public domain, we can't prevent the Directory being used in this way.
If this happens to you, we advise you to report it directly to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). The ICO is the UK’s independent authority that upholds information rights in the public interest and data privacy for individuals. It will use the information provided to identify, investigate and take action against organisations that aren't following the rules around direct marketing.
Please contact us directly if you want further support and guidance.
Scams to look out for
Here are some example case studies, based on actual scams targeting counsellors, with some tips for avoiding scams.
Advertising scams
"I was phoned by someone claiming to be from the ‘Police and Fire Association’. They said that BACP was recommending therapists in the area and asked if I would like to place an advertisement in a directory for emergency services.
"They asked for my bank details. I found out that other counsellors in the area had had the same call. It turned out that the company didn’t exist and had no association with the Police Service, the Fire Service or BACP."
Scam-busting tips:
- take your time – resist pressure to make an immediate decision
- get the caller’s details and call them back when you’ve had time to think about it
- overwhelmed by persuasive sales patter? - it’s OK to say “no, thank you”
Payment frauds
"A potential client emailed me and asked about having a course of counselling. They said they would like to pay for the sessions up front and that the cheque would be paid by a third party. When the cheque arrived it was for a much greater amount than the counselling fees.
"The client asked me to bank the cheque and send them back a cheque for the excess, minus a generous admin fee. The cheque turned out to be a fake.”
Scam-busting tips:
- remember the golden rule – if something seems too good to be true, it probably is
- read up on how to spot counterfeit cheques – they’re a scammer favourite
- never send money to someone you don’t know