With Christmas rapidly approaching, Police officers in Ilkeston have issued guidance in also acknowledging that it is also a time that scammers increase their attempts to target the most vulnerable in our society.
A list of simple rules have been issued to ensure that residents are kept safe for everyone to share with those that could become a victim of a scam
1. Be suspicious of all ‘too good to be true’ offers and deals. There are no guaranteed get-rich-quick schemes.
2. Don’t agree to offers or deals immediately. Insist on time to get independent or legal advice before making a decision.
3. Don’t hand over money or sign anything until you’ve checked someone’s credentials and their company’s.
4. Never send money to anyone you don’t know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you’re not comfortable with.
5. Never give banking or personal details to anyone you don’t know or trust. This information is valuable so make sure you protect it.
6. Always log on to a website directly rather than clicking on links in an email.
7. Don’t just rely on glowing testimonials. Find solid, independent evidence of a company’s success.
8. Always get independent or legal advice if an offer involves money, time or commitment.
9. If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help.
10. Don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam, because the scammers are cunning and clever there’s no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others.
Officers from the Local Safer Neighbourhood Team have also shared a video, which can be seen on this page, owned by mobile communications operator 02 which references a tool that they have implemented to fight scammers, and to waste their time.
You can report scammers numbers to 7726.
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