More than a third of Brits always turn to a cup of tea when they have a difficult decision to make.
A study of 2,000 adults found others reach for a cuppa after a stressful day, to take time out and when they need to focus on something properly.
The top 10 situations where a brew is relied upon also include to calm nerves and to unwind.
In fact, 44 per cent said stopping for a cup of tea is the best way to add clarity to a situation and 35 per cent credit it for helping them avoid making a grave mistake.
Nearly one in four (24 per cent) even say the process of making a cup of tea is cathartic as it helps them calm down.
The research was commissioned by Santander to mark the launch of its Safe-Tea, a calming brew designed to encourage people to consider if they’re being pressured to move their money to another account by a suspected impersonation scammer – something which 58 per cent of Brits have experienced.
Chris Ainsley, head of fraud risk management at the financial services company said: “A brew is not only a great way to calm nerves in a stressful situation but encourages people to take that all important out before acting.
“That’s why we’ve launched Safe-Tea – as we know that scammers’ rule of thumb is to apply pressure, stress and urgency on their targets, which can result in people acting in a way they would not have if they’d taken a moment to calm down and reflect first.
“Always check who you are speaking with – people impersonate me often enough, and if you’re being pressured to move your money – whatever the reason – take some time to carefully think what you’re being asked to do.”
It comes after the research revealed of those who have been targeted by impersonation scammers, 65 per cent claim the act was convincing.
Their politeness, knowing certain bits of information and sounding very professional are the top reasons why those who have been targeted had to stop and consider the legitimacy of the call.
While these scammers most commonly pretend to be a bank (33 per cent), internet provider (28 per cent), or Government agency (27 per cent).
Worryingly, one in five are fearful they could succumb to an impersonation scam, with two-thirds thinking more should be done to raise awareness of them.
And of those who have not been pursued by these scammers, 54 per cent weren’t aware they even existed before being quizzed.
Dr Meg Arroll, a chartered psychologist who has teamed up with Santander for the campaign, said: “In times of stress, people tend to forget to take a moment to objectively evaluate their situation.
“In this heightened state, some may end up doing things they would not have done had they taken a moment out to collect their thoughts.
“During moments like this, remember to stop, breathe and mull it over with a cuppa – just don’t feel pressurised into responding before you’ve thought it through.
“Providing yourself with the space and time to digest the situation at hand can help you feel more in control and avoid a costly mistake.”
TOP 10 REASONS TEA DRINKERS TURN TO A CUPPA:
- To warm up
- To unwind
- To take time out
- After a stressful day
- When settling down to watch TV
- To calm nerves
- To help concentrate
- To focus and consider something properly
- After receiving bad news
- When in need of an energy boost
TIPS FOR SPOTTING AN IMPERSONATION SCAM:
- Remember the golden rule: No bank will ever call you out of the blue and ask you to move money into another account - This is always a scam.
- Take a breath: The hallmark of a scam is being rushed - Take a moment to digest the information before acting.
- When in doubt: Hang up and contact your bank using the number on the back of your bank card.
- No sliding into DMs: Scammers often make contact through social media and other communication channels, and some even go as far as pretending to be a friend or loved on in need of help… Be cautious.
