We would like to thank all our volunteers and supporters for their involvement in Neighbourhood Watch over the past year. We are looking forward to working with you in the new year when we will be not only launching an engaging new website, but also delivering campaigns to support and enable individuals and communities to be connected, active and safe. John Hayward-Cripps, CEO of Neighbourhood Watch shares a special thanks in his Christmas message. See it here: https://www.facebook.com/ourwatch/videos/458264521773602/
Criminals are targeting members of the public with automated calls stating that the recipient has been charged for an Amazon Prime subscription. •Victims are receiving automated calls stating they’ve been charged for an Amazon Prime subscription •They are connected to a scammer posing as an Amazon worker when they try to cancel the subscription •Since the start of September, Action Fraud has received 200 reports from people who have lost money to the scam
Cyber crime monitor Action Fraud said fake TV licence emails regarding payment issues had been sent out to try to collect bank details. The emails use headlines such as "correct your licensing information" and "your TV licence expires today" in an attempt to convince people to click on the link in the email. The fake TV Licensing website asks victims to provide their payment details, including their account number, sort code, and card verification value (CVV) code on the back of their card. The website may also ask for a victim's name, date of birth, address, phone number, email and possibly even their mother's maiden name. A TV Licensing spokeswoman said: "TV Licensing will never email customers, unprompted, to ask for bank details, personal information or tell you that you may be entitled to a refund. Action Fraud said it was working to "stop fraudsters in their tracks". If you think you have received an email from fraudsters, you should report it to Action Fraud
Message Sent By Wendy Leason (Police, Community Support Officer, Saughall)
Tips to prevent fraud 1.Do not give any personal information (name, address, bank details, email or phone number) to organisations or people before verifying they are who they say they are. 2.Many frauds start with an email. Remember that financial institutions and banks will not email asking you to confirm your bank details by clicking a link. Always question whether an email could be bogus. 3.Destroy and preferably shred receipts with your card details on and post with your name and address on. Identity fraudsters don't need much information in order to be able to clone your identity. 4.If you have been a victim of fraud, be aware of fraud recovery fraud. This is when fraudsters pretend to be a lawyer or a law enforcement officer and tell you they can help you recover the money you've already lost. Common forms of Fraud:
Phishing emails Phishing is a method criminals use to steal your identity. Usually these types of scams are sent via email and direct you to websites where you are asked to supply personal data or account information. Be wary of any emails asking for personal information.
Spoofing A ‘spoofing’ scam involves redirecting the user to a duplicated website, with the intention of stealing their personal information. For example, a fake online banking website made to look like the authentic site (including logos, colour and text) would allow scammers access to your bank details. Be wary of any emails or websites asking for bank details.
Viruses and spyware Viruses and spyware are when criminals attack your computer and try to steal personal information such as usernames and passwords.
Scareware Rogue security software, also known as ‘scareware’ is the method of luring a user into downloading fake anti-virus software.
Online auction scams Online auction scams (eBay, Gumtree, Buy or Sell Facebook groups etc.) are where the seller asks you to pay by money transfer or direct to their bank account and bypass the sites' own payment channels.
Reporting Fraud If you're a victim of fraud that is a crime in progress and you need an immediate police response dial 999.
If it is a non-emergency situation, Call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
You can also report fraud or find further advice and information on the Action Fraud website.
Message Sent By Wendy Leason (Police, Community Support Officer, Saughall)
The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has received intelligence to suggest that fraudsters are contacting social media influencers, based in the UK and abroad, offering them the opportunity to market a bogus product, service or investment opportunity.
Fraudsters will present professional and credible pitches to the social media influencers and try to convince them to feature the opportunity for a fee on their social media profiles in order to entice unsuspecting followers of the influencer to sign up or make a purchase.
Additionally, fraudsters are using the names of well-known public figures, implying that their opportunity or product is endorsed by the figure when it is not.
The public should be aware that any apparent endorsement by celebrities, influencers or personalities does not necessarily mean that an investment, product or service is genuine. The public is urged to exercise a cautious approach to any such offer of investment, product or service with the same caution they would at any other time.
What You Need To Do
If you are purchasing goods from a company you don’t know and trust, carry out some research first, or ask friends or family for advice before completing a purchase.
Professional-looking websites, adverts or social media posts do not guarantee that an investment opportunity or product is genuine. Criminals can exploit the names of well-known brands or individuals to make them appear legitimate.
Avoid paying for goods or services by bank transfer unless you know and trust the person or company. Payments via bank transfer offer you no protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use your credit card or payment services such as PayPal as they offer you greater protection if you become a victim of fraud.
Message Sent By Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
Cyber crime monitor Action Fraud said fake TV licence emails regarding payment issues had been sent out to try to collect bank details. The emails use headlines such as "correct your licensing information" and "your TV licence expires today" in an attempt to convince people to click on the link in the email.
Criminals are targeting members of the public with automated calls stating that the recipient has been charged for an Amazon Prime subscription.