|
Black Friday Crime Prevention Tips Black Friday attracts large crowds and high online traffic, making it a prime time for opportunistic criminals. Here’s how to stay safe: In Stores Stay Alert in Busy Areas: Pickpockets and phone thieves target crowded shopping zones and major transport hubs. Keep bags zipped and valuables out of sight. Secure Your Phone: Phone thefts have surged in recent years. Avoid using your phone openly in crowded places and enable biometric locks.Avoid Distraction Tactics: Criminals often work in pairs—one distracts while the other steals. Stay aware of your surroundings. Online Shopping Shop on Trusted Websites: Type the retailer’s official URL directly into your browser. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or social media ads. Check for HTTPS: Ensure the site is secure before entering payment details.Use Strong Passwords: Weak passwords are a major cause of account takeovers. Enable two-factor authentication where possible.Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Using unsecured networks can expose you to cybercrime. Never Pay by Bank Transfer or Gift Cards: These methods are hard to trace and often used in scams. Financial Safety Monitor Bank Accounts: Criminals may access mobile banking apps if they steal your phone. Enable app-specific PINs and biometric security. Use Credit Cards for Purchases: They offer better fraud protection under the Consumer Credit Act.
🔗 Official Met Police Resources General Crime Prevention Advice: Met Police Crime Prevention [met.police.uk]Online Safety Guidance: Met Police Online Safety [met.police.uk]Fraud & Cybercrime Tips: Get Safe Online – Met Police Campaign [getsafeonline.org]Little Book of Big Scams Series: City Security Magazine Overview [citysecuri...gazine.com] | 
