Some Useful Tips For Scam Protection

Our staff thought it may be useful to issue a quick reminder to residents about the importance of being vigilant of the risks posed by scammers.

Many scammers are successful because of how convincing their efforts can be, and with the widepsread use of electronics nowadays there are more ways than ever that a scammer can attempt to get to you.

Most scammers are after either your personal information to commit fraud, or information required to take money from you.

Below are some key red flags to be aware of when receiving messages by text, email, telephone, social media etc;

- Be wary of unfamiliar sender names, email addresses or phone numbers - especially if you are not expecting to be contacted by anyone

- Scam messages often try to pressurise you into a sense of urgency - they may have a limited time on them, threaten to action your account etc. if you do not engage with them quickly

- Messages often have poor spelling, grammar or are worded awkwardly. Ask yourself if it reads correctly.

- Be wary of any unexpected contacts asking for personal or security information. For example, your real bank shouldn't contact you for account details.

- Messages that seem 'too good to be true' - be cautious of things saying, for example, that you have won money, prizes or are eligible for benefits, grants or funding. Another common one can be messages from supposed delivery couriers - if you are not expecting any packages deliver, do not engage.

There are some measures you can take to protect yourself where you suspect something suspicious:

- Do not contact the sender, give out any information or click on any links or attachments. Block the phone number if it was a call.

- Warn others about the suspected scam so that they can protect themselves too

- You can forward suspected scam texts to 7726 free of charge, or forward emails to report@phishing.gov.uk