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For the information of everyone to enable them to protect themselves, their families and the Council against the most current threats from fraud and cybercrime. Please feel free to distribute these messages to anyone you feel may benefit from them.
While a lot of fraud is now happening online as it is easier, cheaper, you can reach a lot of people quickly, and there is less chance of getting caught, please remember that fraud can happen in person, right on your doorstep. Treat unsolicited callers to your door in the same way I hope you are treating unsolicited telephone calls: a quick ‘no thank you’ and shut the door.
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Online shopping
I know that I am constantly telling people that they have to check and do research before buying online. Well, now we have a little help. Get Safe Online have provided a website that enables you to check if other websites are legitimate. You can check a website by going to their Check a website page.
This will not be completely fool-proof as they can only report on the websites they know about and it is a good idea to also do your own research and look at reviews and what other people are saying about the website.
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Cyber skills
The National Crime Agency have launched a website to test your cyber skills and increase your knowledge with a range of games. The aim is to increase your awareness of cyber security and help to prevent you becoming a victim of cyber crime.
You can find more information at the Cyber Security Challenge website.
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Buying a used car?
Essex Police have produced a list of twelve good tips to help you if you are buying a used car. You can find them on their Buying a used car? webpage.
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Beware of door-to-door scams
Information from Essex Police: Fraud does not happen just online; it can happen on your doorstep. Most door-to-door scams involve selling goods or services that are either not delivered or are poor quality. You will not get value for money and you might pay for work you did not want or agree to. Some criminals conduct surveys to get your personal details or as a cover to sell you stuff.
Personally, I do not respond to door-to-door sellers apart from a quick "No, thank you" and closing the door. If someone knocks on your door saying they are from a company, check their identification. If you are not happy, do not let them in. Never call the number on their identification to check them out. Ask the person to wait, close the door, and call the number for the company on the internet.
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Get rich quick
Essex Police have also highlighted a problem that can tempt anyone but especially young people. You might have seen adverts about making easy money quickly. Criminals use fake job adverts or social media posts to tempt you in and use you as a 'money mule'.
Money mules are sent money to their bank accounts and are then asked to either transfer or withdraw it. In return they keep a little bit of the money themselves.
This is often stolen money and if your account is used it would mean that you are involved and are breaking the law. You could be prosecuted.
Crime prevention: keep your home safe
Action Fraud and Neighbourhood Watch are advising people to use 'WIDEN' to keep their homes safe. Research has shown that using a set of security actions provides up to fifty times more protection from burglary than having no security. these actions are recommended by police forces across the country. The letters stand for:
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Windows: Lock your windows
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Interior: Put your interior lights on a timer
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Doors: Double lock or dead lock your doors
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Exterior: Put your exterior lights on a sensor
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Neighbourhoods: Keep an eye out for your neighbours
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Crime prevention: protect yourself from street robbery
Essex Police have provided advice to keep you and your property safe on the street.
Look confident
You are less likely to be targeted if you look confident. Move with purpose and try to be aware of your surroundings
Know where you are going
Plan your route and think about what to take with you, especially if you have not been there before. Use busy, well-lit streets which are more likely to be covered by CCTV. Only use licenced taxis or minicabs booked by phone or an app.
Hide it
Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight. If you are using your phone, it is more likely to be snatched from your hand if you are not paying attention; look around you. Keep jewellery covered.
Never leave anything valuable on the table of an outdoor café, pub or restaurant.
The most important thing to remember is that if you are threatened with violence, do not risk your personal safety. Property can be replaced, you cannot.
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‘Tell2 over a brew’ is a communication initiative that empowers you to discuss crime prevention messages with others in your life, who otherwise may never know. Start with ‘tell2’ and ask them to do the same. An unbroken chain of 26 tell2’ers would reach 67 million people. It starts with YOU. |
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’Take Five’ is a national campaign to offer straight-forward, impartial advice that helps prevent email, phone-based and online fraud – particularly where criminals impersonate trusted organisations. Find out more at www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk. |
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If you suspect someone is trying to defraud the Council call the Counter Fraud and
Investigation Team on 01702 215254 or email us at counterfraud@southend.gov.uk.
If you or someone you know is vulnerable and has been a victim of fraud, please call
Essex Police on 101.
Report fraud or attempted fraud by contacting Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. |
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