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Hello Resident Think Fraud For Resident's of Wednesfield & Heath Town platform frequently shares alerts based on the "Stop! Think Fraud" national campaign. These alerts are designed to help you pause and verify suspicious messages across various common scam categories. Below are samples and guidance for the specific fraud types you mentioned: Is this your bank? Fraudsters often send "urgent" texts about suspicious activity to trick you into revealing details. Sample Alert: "WARNING: We've noticed suspicious activity on your account. For your security, your account will be suspended if you do not get in touch LinkThe Reality: Real banks will never ask for your full PIN, password, or card details via text.Action: Ignore the link and call your bank using the number on the back of your card. Is this a real offer? Scams often use "too good to be true" prices to create a sense of urgency. Sample Alert: "Last chance! Get 70% off the latest Brand items. Offer expires in 2 hours! Click here: Suspicious URL."The Reality: Pressure to "buy now" is a major red flag. Check for a closed padlock symbol in the address bar, but remember this only means the connection is secure, not that the site is legitimate. Are these real tickets? Criminals target sold-out events (concerts, football matches) by posting fake ads on social media. Sample Alert: "Selling 2x tickets for tonight's sold-out show! DM for price. Can transfer via email immediately after bank transfer."The Reality: Tickets from unofficial sources on Facebook or Instagram are often fake or duplicates.Action: Only buy from official club websites or authorised resellers. Never pay by direct bank transfer to an individual. Is this a real delivery? Smishing (SMS phishing) messages claim you have a missed parcel to steal personal info or delivery fees. Sample Alert: "Delivery Company: Your parcel has been held at our depot due to an unpaid shipping fee of £1.99. Pay here to reschedule: Link."The Reality: Reputable delivery companies usually leave a card or use their official app.Action: Report suspicious texts by forwarding them to 7726, the free UK reporting service. To stay safe: Always Stop, Think, Fraud. If you've been a victim, report it to Action Fraud or call 101. Is this really your son? (The "Hey Mum/Dad" Scam) This is a common "friend or family in need" impersonation scam. Sample Alert: "Hi Mum, I've lost my phone and I'm using a friend's. I'm in a bit of a mess and need to pay a bill urgently. Can you help? Bank Details."The Reality: Scammers rely on your emotional response to bypass your caution.Action: Always call the person on their original number to verify their identity before sending any money. The "Hi Mum/Dad" (or "Is this your son?") message is a classic impersonation scam designed to exploit your parental instinct to help in an emergency. Scammers use these messages to build trust before asking for money or personal details. Recent Fraud & Scam Alerts (Jan–Mar 2026) Digital Pickpocketing: Residents have been warned about scammers using handheld card readers or mobile apps in crowded areas to trigger unauthorised contactless payments.Bentley Bridge Shopping Park (queues and gift shops), Heath Town Markets and local public transport. Romance Fraud ("The Heartbreak Scam"): Policing teams issued warnings about scammers on dating sites and social media who build emotional bonds to request money for "emergencies" or travel."Bogus Official" Scams: Reports of criminals impersonating police officers, council staff, or utility workers to gain entry to homes or steal personal data.WhatsApp "Hi Mum/Dad" Scams: Fraudsters pose as a family member in need to trick victims into sending money.Retail & Consumer Fraud:: A local shop was fined £16k in February 2026 for selling illicit tobacco and vapes, which also involved charges under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Wednesfield: Officers recently arrested individuals for shop theft and fraud offences during high-visibility patrols. Prevention & Support Resources Stop, Think, Fraud: WMP encourages the "101 Rule"—if a caller claims to be from the police or a bank, hang up, wait 5 minutes to clear the line, and call 101 or your bank's official number.RFID Protection: For digital pickpocketing, police recommend using RFID-blocking sleeves or mobile wallets like Apple/Google Pay, which are more secure than physical cards.Reporting: Report all fraud and cybercrime to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.Local Support: The Victims' Code Innovation Fund, launched in January 2026, provides grants for grassroots projects to support fraud victims in the West Midlands. Thank you From your Wednesfield and Heath Town Team | 
