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The Fraud & Scam Bulletin November 2024 Your monthly update direct from West Mercia Police on the latest scams and frauds

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BLACK FRIDAY

Are they bargains or scams ?

Whilst “Black Friday” is a relatively new event in the UK, it did not take long for criminals to seize another opportunity to defraud unsuspecting members of the public of their hard-earned cash.

Although Black Friday started life on the last Friday in November, this year, as in previous years, seems to start earlier and earlier each year and the adverts are already appearing on our TV screens.

So take your time –

  • In the heat of the moment, it can be hard to tell if it is a bargain or a scam, especially in the run up to Black Friday!
  • Criminals may try to trick you into purchasing goods/services that don’t exist by advertising them at too good to be true prices.
  • Protect your money and information by only using retailers you trust, or authorised sellers named on official websites when shopping for deals online.
  • Beware of Phishing emails that appear to come from reputable retailers with “too good to miss” offers, never click on links in emails from unrecognised senders
  • Check out the security of the Website by looking for the Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. in the website address and the padlock symbol which should be in the address bar, and not in the body of the site, as confirmation of a website’s security
  • Fake websites can copy mainstream online retailers and enticing buyers with unbeatable prices, always stick with well-known, reputable retailers online
  • Some online sellers may be selling counterfeit products at Black Friday prices

 

SPOTTED AN ULTRA-LOW PRICE FOR A SOLD-OUT GAMES CONSOLE?

#TAKEFIVE – IT COULD BE A SCAM.

  • Does the offer sound too good to be true? Are they refusing to provide you with additional photos? Do they want you to pay up front by bank transfer?
  • Only use the secure payment method recommended by retailers and auction sites, where possible, use a credit card for purchases over £100 and up to £30,000 as you receive protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.

Please feel free to share these messages with any vulnerable friends, relatives or neighbours

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IF YOU THINK YOU ARE BEING SCAMMED

OR DO NOT RECOGNISE THE CONTACT

Take Five to Stop Fraud

  • STOP: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
  • CHALLENGE: Could it be fake? It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
  • PROTECT: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud

If you’ve fallen for a scam, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.

Scam Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take early action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks. Scam mobile calls can also be forwarded to 7726, followed by the word “CALL”, then the scam phone number

Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk

For further information visit:

https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/    https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/