Scam Safety for People With a Disability
Practical scam safety guidance for people with a disability — and for those who support them — with a focus on independence and dignity.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
People with disabilities are targeted by scammers at higher rates than average — not because of any personal failing, but because scammers deliberately seek out people who may face additional barriers to verification, may rely more heavily on others, or may be more isolated. At the same time, every person with a disability has the right to manage their own finances and make their own choices wherever possible. This guide offers practical tools and habits that support both safety and independence.
How scammers target people with disabilities
Understanding the tactics used helps identify them. Scammers often use approaches that take advantage of specific vulnerabilities without the person realising it.
- Benefit and PIP review scams claiming fees are needed to protect payments
- Fake accessibility product or mobility aid offers
- Carer or support worker impersonation scams
- Doorstep callers targeting those who may be home alone more often
- Phone scams that rely on compliance or trust in authority
Practical protections
The most useful protections are those that fit naturally into daily life and do not create extra burdens.
- Register with the Telephone Preference Service and use call blocking
- Agree a 'pause and check' habit with a trusted contact for unexpected financial requests
- Banks can apply transaction limits or trusted-contact alerts — ask about what's available
- Any legitimate benefit review will come in writing from the official agency, not by phone demanding fees
Independence, autonomy, and support
The goal of any scam protection is to increase security without reducing independence. Supports should be chosen and agreed by the person themselves wherever possible.
- Involve the person fully in choosing any protective measures
- Use accessible formats (large print, easy-read) when explaining scams
- Focus on empowering habits rather than restrictions
- Raise safeguarding concerns through appropriate channels only — not informally
Frequently asked questions
Someone called saying my PIP or disability benefit is at risk unless I pay a fee — is this real?
No. Legitimate benefit agencies never demand fees by phone to protect your payments. This is a scam. Hang up and, if you want to check on your claim, call the official number listed on your benefit letters or on the government website.
How can a support worker help with scam safety without taking over?
A support worker can help set up protective measures, practise verification habits together, and be a named trusted contact — all with the person's full agreement. The person should remain in control of their own financial decisions wherever they have capacity to do so.
Are there resources in easy-read or accessible formats?
Action Fraud, the Money and Pensions Service, and many charities supporting specific disabilities produce scam awareness materials in accessible formats. Your local council or disability support organisation can often point you to the most relevant resources.