Fraudulent activity - Stop! Think Fraud

🚨 SCAM AWARENESS: Don't Let Fraudsters Catch You Out 🚨

Scammers are becoming increasingly convincing, targeting people through phone calls, emails, text messages, social media, online advertisements, and even at the doorstep.

💡 Anyone can become a victim of fraud. Scammers target people of all ages and backgrounds, from young adults using social media and online shopping platforms to older residents who may be contacted by phone or in person.

🤝 Look out for those around you, particularly friends, family members, neighbours, and vulnerable members of our community. A simple conversation about scams could help prevent someone from becoming a victim.

Warning signs to watch out for:

⚠️ Being pressured to act quickly or make decisions without seeking advice.
⚠️ Being told to keep conversations, payments, or investments secret from family, friends, banks, or the police.
⚠️ Someone encouraging you to be evasive about the reason for transferring money.
⚠️ Requests to open new bank accounts, investment accounts, or cryptocurrency accounts when you've never used them before.
⚠️ Being directed to move money into cryptocurrency or other difficult-to-trace payment methods.
⚠️ Offers that seem too good to be true or promise guaranteed returns.

To help protect yourself, friends, and family, remember these 10 Golden Rules to Prevent Fraud:

✅ Be suspicious of offers that seem too good to be true.
✅ Never rush into a deal or decision. Insist on time to get independent or legal advice before making a decision.
✅ Don’t hand over money or sign anything until you’ve checked someone’s credentials and their company’s.
✅ Never send money to someone you don't know or trust.
✅ Keep your banking and personal information secure.
✅ Always log on to a website directly rather than clicking on links in an email.
✅ Don’t just rely on glowing testimonials. Find solid, independent evidence of a company’s success.
✅ Always get independent or legal advice if an offer involves money, time or commitment.
✅ Report scams and seek help if you've been targeted.
✅ Don't be embarrassed to report a scam. Fraudsters are skilled at deceiving people, and your information could help protect others.

🔹 If you have been targeted by a scam, suspect fraud, or have become a victim, report it:
📞 Report Fraud: 0300 123 2040

📞 You can also contact the police on 101 to report fraud-related concerns.

Remember, even if an incident seems minor, your report could provide an important piece of information that helps identify offenders and prevent others from becoming victims.

🔄 Please share the message, to help raise awareness and keep our communities safe.