Advice on protecting your bank accounts, phones and computers.

How can I protect myself online?

- Do not click on any links you are not totally sure of

- Restrict the amount of personal information that you disclose when online

- Keep your computer security programs (antivirus, anti-scam) up to date

- Know how to verify secure web sited if making a financial transaction. You can do this by looking at the address line. Normally it will start with http this will change to https for example, hhtp//www.mybank.com. The address bar may also change colour and a padlock will appear in either the bottom left or right corner.

How can I protect my bank accounts?

- Regularly check statements and chase up any statements that’s are not delivered when expected

- Shred using a crosscut (confetti) shredder or tear up into small pieces anything containing personal information

- Sign up for credit reference agency for alerts

- If you think someone is misusing your Bank card then report it to your bank

How can I protect my mobile phone?

- Never reply to unsolicited texts e.g. texts referring to accidents claims even to get them stopped just delete them

- Be aware of unsolicited Phone calls, Letters and emails pretending to be your bank or other financial institutions and asking for you to confirm your personal details, passwords and security number.

- Sign up with the Telephone Preference Service to prevent marketing phone calls 0800 398 893 www.tpsonline.org.uk

Don’t fall for online scams, scam letters via email, advance fee or other internet related frauds. If you need any more advice, then please contact us on 101 or ACTION FRAUD 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org

5144 Sarah Blacow

Following on from the drugs warrant that was executed in January, the male who was arrested was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment for the supply of Class A drugs in the Ambleside area. This is an excellent result, which shows that the police working with the local community helps to get results. Last week also saw another male from Ambleside get charged with the supply of Class A and Class B drugs, he is awaiting court. 

The week 23rd to 29th April marks drowning prevention and water safety week and is a campaign organised by the National Fire Chiefs Council.

It is aimed to raise awareness of accidental drowning and the risks involved with open water.
Please bear in mind the following safety tips:
* Swim in supervised areas if possible, unmarked areas may hold potential dangers.
* Dive only in familiar areas and check the water depth before you dive
* Be aware of underwater hazards such as rocks
* Beware of the undercurrent.

* Keep an eye out for potentially dangerous conditions such as patches of vegetation, hidden ledges and slippery surfaces.

Remember: Whilst it may be a hot day, the water temperature in the lakes may be very cold.