Please be aware of criminals trying to scam people.

Here is a round-up of scams going around at the moment:

 

Digital switchover scamming

The Local Government Association has warned that criminals are using the switchover from analogue to digital to scam residents.

Vulnerable residents using healthcare telephony devices are being scammed into giving their personal information, including bank details.

Please note that the digital switchover is free of charge. Progress Lifeline, councils and home care alarm providers or contractors will never ask for personal or financial information over the phone.

Find out more about the digital switch over here: Telephone digital switchover - what does it mean for you?

Scam banking telephone call

Scammers claiming to be from your bank are calling people, stating their bank cards have been cloned. In one case, the scammer asked the card holder to confirm all the numbers on the card including the expiry date and the three numbers on the back. The scammer said the cards needed to be sent to the head of bank security immediately by recorded delivery and provided an address.   They claim any money already taken would be returned once the cards were received.

Remember not to make hasty decisions, be cautious, and always contact your bank independently to check. 

WhatsApp scam
Scammers pretend to be a family member asking for money or needing urgent help.

An example includes: "Mum I’ve broken my phone. I need a huge favour. WhatsApp me on this number urgently."
Never respond or follow the instructions. Instead, ring the family member on their usual number.

Report the message to 7726 and block the number.

Email phishing - electricity bills

Phishing emails are offering to pay for solar installations, reduce electricity bills or even ‘eliminate’ them all together.

They ask you to click on malicious links and/or provide your personal information so they can defraud you.

The emails ask you to provide information to see if you qualify for advertised reductions.

Often the email appears genuine and may look like its come from your energy provider.

Always check who has sent an email by hovering over the email address of the sender, as this can sometimes show its come from a different source. Delete such emails.

If you are struggling with your bills, contact your provider by using contact details on their website on from a previous genuine bill.

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) scam

The FCA has warned of scammers impersonating them. Common tactics are to claim compensation is owed and ask for bank details.

Bargain websites

Fraudsters are preying on bargain hunters looking for deals in ‘closing down’ or ‘clearance’ sales. These sales are typically advertised on social media or through fake websites, and often draw on brands who have been in the news recently announcing store closures, such as Wilko. 

  • Always say no to cold callers
  • The Safe Trader Scheme can help you find a trader in your area; contact 0303 333 1111 or go to www.safetrader.org.uk
  • Contact the Trading Standards Service via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.

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