More than £2.2 million lost to fraud in Hertfordshire: How to protect yourself

More than £2.2 million lost to fraud in Hertfordshire: How to protect yourself

More than £2.2 million was lost by Hertfordshire victims of fraud during 2026, with over 1,000 reports of email and social media account hacking and banking fraud.

Fraudsters are constantly looking for ways to access people's personal information and money. By taking a few simple steps, you can help protect yourself and your accounts.

Protect your email account

Your email account often contains personal, financial and sensitive information. If a criminal gains access to it, they may be able to reset passwords for your other online accounts and lock you out completely.

1. Use strong passwords or passkeys

Use passkeys where available. Passkeys use your device's security features, such as Face ID, fingerprint recognition or a PIN, and are more secure than traditional passwords.

Make sure your email password is unique and not used for any other account.

Create strong passwords using three random words that are memorable to you but difficult for others to guess.

Avoid using personal information such as names, birthdays or pet names.

Find out more about passkeys at: www.ncsc.gov.uk/passkeys

2. Turn on Two-Step Verification (2SV)

Two-Step Verification provides an extra layer of security by requiring a code sent to your phone when signing in on a new device or making changes to your account.

Even if someone obtains your password, 2SV can help prevent them from accessing your account.

Stay safe when using cash machines

Criminals may try to steal card details or PIN numbers at ATMs.

When using a cash machine:

Cover your PIN while entering it.

Stand close to the machine.

Shield the keypad with your hand and body.

Avoid machines where people appear to be loitering nearby.

Do not use a machine if it looks damaged, unusual or has signs of tampering.

If a cash machine retains your card, contact your bank/card provider immediately, ideally while you are still at the machine.

Shopping online? Protect yourself

When buying goods online:

Use reputable retailers.

Be wary of links in unexpected emails, text messages or social media posts.

Access websites through a search engine or saved bookmark rather than clicking unsolicited links.

Consider using PayPal or a credit card for additional fraud protection.

Avoid saving your card details on websites unless necessary.

Report fraud

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, report it online at www.reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

For more advice on protecting yourself from fraud, visit:

www.gov.uk/stopthinkfraud

www.herts.police.uk/cyber-fraud

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Message Sent By
Dan Atkinson
(Hertfordshire Constabulary, Senior Press and PR Officer, Corporate Communication)