Urgent: Phone Charging Fire Safety 🔥

A recent fire in Bexley was caused by a mobile phone left charging on a sofa overnight. The family was lucky to escape, but the damage was severe.

Never charge your phone on soft furnishings.

Learn more about fire safety and the #ChargeSafe campaign: https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/lithium-batteries/

 

Batteries and charges, their safety and use (LFB).

#firesafety #chargesafe #phonefire #safetyfirst #beprepared

By sharing this information, you can help prevent similar tragedies from happening.

Protecting Yourself from Street Scams

Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

General Precautions

• Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don't hesitate to walk away.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to people and activities around you.
• Protect your belongings: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables secure. Avoid displaying flashy items.
• Be cautious with personal information: Avoid sharing personal details with strangers.

Specific Prevention Tips

• Avoid eye contact: Scammers often target people who make eye contact.
• Be wary of distractions: If someone tries to distract you, it's likely a setup.
• Verify charities: If you want to donate, research the charity independently.
• Use ATMs wisely: Shield your PIN, avoid using ATMs in isolated areas, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Be cautious with taxi drivers: Ensure the meter is working and avoid accepting rides from unofficial ranks.

What to Do if You're Targeted

• Stay calm: Don't panic.
• Be assertive: Politely decline any offers or requests.
• Create a scene: If you feel threatened, make noise to attract attention.
• Report the incident: Contact the local authorities if you've been a victim.

Remember, prevention is key. By being aware of common scams and taking precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim.

Common Street Scams

Here are some other common street scams to watch out for:

Distraction Scams

• The Three-Card Monte: A classic scam involving shuffling cards and betting on which card is the correct one. It's almost always rigged.
• The Spilled Substance: Someone might accidentally spill something on you, then apologise profusely while their accomplice steals your belongings.
• The Fake Accident: A staged accident can be used to distract you while pickpockets target your valuables.

Confidence Tricks

• The Fake Charity: Scammers posing as charity workers may ask for donations, but the money never reaches the intended cause.
• The Friendship Scam: Someone may strike up a conversation and offer to buy you a drink, only to disappear with your belongings.
• The Overpayment Scam: You might be offered more than the asking price for an item, but the payment is counterfeit or stolen.

Other Common Scams

• The Broken Meter Scam: Taxi drivers might claim their meter is broken and overcharge you.
• The Fake Police Officer: Someone posing as a police officer may ask to see your identification or money.
• The Watch Scam: A stranger might offer to sell you a luxury watch at a bargain price, but it's likely a fake.

Remember: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and be cautious when interacting with strangers on the street.

Clipboard Scam: A Quick Overview

A clipboard scam is a common street scam where individuals approach people with a clipboard, often pretending to collect signatures for a petition or survey.

Here's how it typically works:

• The approach: The scammers, often appearing as a group, will ask for your signature on a petition, claiming to support a good cause.
• The distraction: While you're distracted with the petition, an accomplice may attempt to pickpocket you or distract you for another scam.
• The reveal: In some cases, after signing the petition, you're presented with a demand for money, claiming you owe them a fee.

Key points to remember:

• Be wary of unsolicited requests: Avoid signing petitions or providing personal information to strangers on the street.
• Protect your belongings: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Be assertive: If you feel uncomfortable, politely decline and walk away.

Top 10 scam calls plaguing the UK

In the past six months, there were more than 3.4m searches for phone contract scams on the website Who Called Me - a site that helps you establish the identity of callers by searching suspicious phone numbers.

Data collected by Who Called Me and shared with Which? has revealed the top 10 scam calls searched, with people in London and South East England carrying out the most searches. What are the most-searched types of scam calls? Find out here, plus advice on avoiding phone scams.

Plagued by scam calls

Source: Which? (24 Jul 2024)

Global IT outage scams

The National Cyber Security Centre – part of the UK’s intelligence & cyber agency – has warned of an increase in phishing attempts that reference the global IT outage.

Opportunistic scammers typically take advantage of big events, such as the global IT outage, to con victims. Make sure you’re clued up on how to spot the scam with our expert guide.

Spot scams guide

Source: Which?

Protect your phone from scams

It's not always easy to spot a phone scam. For example, fraudsters can spoof phone numbers so it appears that you're genuinely being called by your bank or a government department.

Follow Which? top tips to stay safe from scammers who target you over the phone.

Stop phone scams

Source: Which? (24 Jul 2024)

Scam Alert: Don't Fall for Fake Housing Repair Calls!

Here at SCAMARAMA, we've seen a surge in reports of phone scams targeting homeowners and tenants. These fraudsters claim to be from a "housing disrepair team" and offer bogus solutions to problems like damp or mould.

Don't be fooled! Here's how to protect yourself:

The Signs of a Scam:

• Unsolicited Calls: You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to represent a housing disrepair team.
• Phoney Offers: They offer "free" inspections or financial assistance to fix problems you might not even have.
• Urgency Tactics: They pressure you to make a decision immediately, often using scare tactics.
• Fake Caller ID: The caller ID might show a seemingly legitimate number, like a local council office.

How to Fight Back:

• Just Say No: Don't give out personal information like your address or bank details.
• Hang Up: End the call immediately and don't engage with the scammer.
• Report the Call: Forward unwanted texts to 7726 (free) to help your mobile provider identify potential scams.
• Verify Directly: If you're concerned about repairs, contact your landlord or housing association directly using a known phone number or website.

Stay Safe & Informed:

• Register with TPS: Join the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce unwanted sales calls (https://www.tpsonline.org.uk/).
• Beware of Fake Links: Don't click on any links sent by text message.
• Use Call Blocking: Consider using a call blocking service to stop unwanted calls.

What to Do If Scammed:

• Report It: If you've been scammed, report it to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) or your bank (use the number on your card).

Remember: Legitimate companies won't pressure you for personal information over the phone. Be cautious, stay informed, and don't let scammers take advantage of you!

Alert: Phishing Scam Targeting Tax Rebates!

Phishing Scam Targeting Tax Rebates! - Reported

We've identified a phishing scam email targeting taxpayers in the UK. This email claims you have a tax rebate waiting for you for the 2023/2024 tax year.

Here are the red flags to watch out for:

• Misspelled Domain: The sender's email address claims to be from "wwwh.gov.uk," but the UK government website uses the domain GOV.UK (notice the missing "H").
• Suspicious Link: The link provided to claim the rebate (http://tx.reb.gv.uk.kZq5WD.talakaranzarghan.ir/.qzq/.zqz/?jROUCWDBhre) is extremely long and contains nonsensical characters. Legitimate government websites will have clear and concise URLs.
• Generic Greeting: "Best Regards, G.0.V." is an unprofessional way for a government agency to address its citizens.

What to Do:

• Do not click on any links or attachments in this email.
• Do not reply to the email.
• Forward the email as an attachment to report@phishing.gov.uk to report the scam to the UK government.
• Delete the email.

How to Claim Your Real Tax Rebate Safely:

• Visit the official GOV.UK website: Always go directly to the government's website (GOV.UK) for information on tax rebates.
• Search for "tax rebate" on the GOV.UK website for specific instructions on how to claim your rebate securely.
• Contact HMRC directly: If you're unsure about your tax situation, contact Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) directly using the phone numbers or contact information provided on the GOV.UK website.

By following these tips, you can protect yourself from phishing scams and ensure you claim your tax rebates safely and securely.

Remember: Legitimate government agencies will never ask for your personal information via email. Stay vigilant and report any suspicious emails you receive.

Tools you need to stay ahead of scams visit Stop!Think Fraud at https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk/

House fire - Welling 🔥

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a house fire on Tyndall Road in Welling.

The first floor of the two-storey building was destroyed by fire. One adult woman was led to safety by firefighters before being taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.

The Brigade was called at 1303 and the fire was under control by 1411. Crews from Plumstead, Bexley and Eltham fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Source: LFB (19 Jul 2024)

Lock Down Your Digital Life: Free Forever Password Management with Bitwarden and Aegis

Are you tired of juggling countless passwords and worrying about cyber threats? It's time to take control of your online security without breaking the bank. This guide will show you how to create an impenetrable digital fortress using two free, powerful tools: Bitwarden and Aegis OTP.

Why Bitwarden and Aegis?

• Bitwarden: This open-source password manager offers unlimited password storage, secure sharing, and cross-platform compatibility. Best of all, it's completely free!
• Aegis OTP: A simple, effective app that generates six-digit one-time passcodes (OTP) for added security. Also free.

Together, they form a formidable duo that can protect your sensitive information from prying eyes.

How it Works:

1. Create a Strong Bitwarden Master Password: This is the key to your digital kingdom. Make it long, complex, and unique.
2. Store All Your Passwords in Bitwarden: From email to banking, every account deserves a strong, unique password. Let Bitwarden generate and store them securely.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): For an extra layer of protection, use Aegis to generate OTPs for your accounts that support 2FA.
4. Sync Bitwarden Across Devices: Access your passwords effortlessly on your computer, smartphone, and tablet.

Going Premium: When to Consider Paying

While the free versions of Bitwarden and Aegis are excellent, you might consider upgrading to Bitwarden Premium for these additional benefits:

• Advanced Security Features: Password health reports, breach monitoring, and emergency access.
• Enhanced Convenience: Biometric authentication, one-click password filling, and family sharing.

If you decide to pay for Bitwarden Premium, you no longer need Aegis, as Bitwarden's built-in authenticator provides similar functionality.

Tips for Maximum Security:

• Regular Password Audits: Use Bitwarden's features to identify weak or reused passwords.
• Enable Dark Web Monitoring: Stay informed about potential data breaches.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure both Bitwarden and Aegis have the latest security patches.
• Beware of Phishing Attacks: Be cautious of suspicious emails and links.

By combining the power of Bitwarden and Aegis, you can significantly enhance your online security without spending a dime. Take control of your digital life today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your valuable information is protected.

Keywords: Bitwarden, Aegis OTP, password manager, two-factor authentication, online security, data protection, free tools, cyber security.

(GDPR) Visit https://bitwarden.com/pricing/, https://getaegis.app/ (Android only)

[Bitwarden] How I Manage All My Passwords (for FREE!) (video) 👍

Bitwarden Tutorial | The Full Beginners Guide (video)

Bitwarden 101: How to use the Bitwarden Password Manager (video)

Aegis 2FA App (video) 👍

The Best Authenticator Apps for iPhone and Android

Check if your email address is in a data breach > https://haveibeenpwned.com/

House fire - Crayford 🔥

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a house fire on Maiden Lane in Crayford.

Half of the first floor of the two-storey terraced house was damaged by fire. One man suffering burns to his hand and smoke inhalation left the building before the arrival of the Brigade and was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.

The Brigade was called at 2132 and the fire was under control by 2258. Crews from Bexley and Erith fire stations and from Kent Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene. 

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Source: LFB (16 Jul 2024)

Celebrity deepfakes

A deepfake video is when artificial intelligence is used to create videos of people saying or doing things that never happened. There was a 3,000% increase in the use of deepfake attempts and identity fraud in 2023, according to the identity verification company Onfido.

Which of the following people do you think topped the list of most impersonated celebrities?

• Taylor Swift
• Elon Musk
• Holly Willoughby
• Martin Lewis

Which? have examined several deepfake videos that impersonated celebrities. Read their advice and watch their video to see the telltale clues to watch out for.

Source: Which? (17 Jul 2024)

More fake customer service agents uncovered on X

Which? have uncovered scammers on X (formerly Twitter) posing as real customer service agents for a number of well-known brands over the past few months. Most recently, we found 37 fake Zara accounts that were replying to customers' genuine queries on X in a bid to steal their personal data.

Read their investigation to find out how the Zara scam works and how to spot fake social media posts.

Fake agents on X

Source: Which? (15 Jul 2024)

AI scams

With advances in AI, scams are becoming much more sophisticated. Read our guide on the different types of AI scams to learn how to spot and avoid them.

AI scams guide

Source: Which? (13 Mar 2024)

Beware! Phishing Scheme Targets Lasting Power of Attorney Information

A new phishing scam is targeting individuals with Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) responsibilities. This attempt is particularly concerning because it preys on sensitive information and could lead to financial exploitation.

The Scam:

Fraudsters are sending emails urging recipients to update their LPA account details – email and password – by clicking a provided link. These emails might appear convincing, mentioning "gov.uk" but using it incorrectly (often at the end of the URL instead of the beginning).

Why It's Dangerous:

Clicking the link in the email could lead to a fake website designed to steal your login credentials. With this information, scammers could gain access to the LPA account and potentially manipulate financial decisions related to the person you're representing.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails, especially those claiming to be from government agencies.
• Legitimate LPA authorities won't request sensitive information through email. If unsure, contact the official LPA website (gov.uk/lasting-power-of-attorney) to verify any updates.
• Double-check website addresses. Look for typos or suspicious extensions after ".gov.uk" (e.g., ".gov.uk.scam").

What to Do if Targeted:

• Do not click on any links in the email.
• Report the email as phishing.
• Forward the email to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
• Change your LPA account password if you suspect a breach.

Spreading Awareness is Key:

If you care for someone with an LPA, share this information with them to help them stay vigilant against these scams. By being aware and taking precautions, we can protect ourselves and loved ones from falling victim to financial exploitation.

Great Job Reporting!

Your vigilance in reporting this phishing attempt helps keep others safe. Remember, if something seems suspicious, it probably is. Always err on the side of caution when dealing with emails concerning sensitive information.

Tools you need to stay ahead of scams visit Stop!Think Fraud at https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk/

Warning: Phishing Attempt - Don't Fall for Fake Tchibo Email!

Heads up, everyone! A phishing scam email is circulating, claiming to be from Tchibo with the sender addresses "do-notreply@support.net" and "noreply@service.tchibo.de."

Here's why it's a scam:

• Mismatched Sender and Recipient: Tchibo wouldn't use generic "do-notreply" or ".net" addresses. They would likely use an email address that clearly identifies them, like "[email protected]". Additionally, they wouldn't reference a different company's internet service provider (BTinternet) in the email.
• Urgency and Threats: Legitimate companies rarely threaten to close your account unless you take immediate action through a link. Taking a breath and verifying the information directly with the company is always a safer option.

What to Do:

• Do not click on any links in the email. Phishing emails often contain links that lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal information.
• Do not reply to the email. Scammers use replies to confirm they have a valid email address.
• Report the email as phishing. Most email providers have a way to report phishing emails. You can usually find this option by clicking on the "..." menu next to the email and selecting "Report Phishing."
• Delete the email.

Here's How to Stay Safe:

• Be cautious of unsolicited emails, even if they appear to be from a familiar company.
• Always verify the sender's email address before clicking on any links.
• If you're unsure about an email, contact the company directly through a phone number or website listed on their official channels.
• Never share your personal information or login credentials in response to an email.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from phishing scams.

Great Job Reporting This!

By reporting the email as phishing, you helped make the internet a safer place for everyone. Good work! Let's spread awareness and keep each other informed about these scams.

Scam phishing email, reported phishing

Tools you need to stay ahead of scams visit Stop!Think Fraud at https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk/

Bexley Crime stats ward summary Jun 2024

Source: Bexley Watch Viz

Fight Phone Theft: Dodge Pickpockets and Distraction Tactics

Our phones are treasures, but in the wrong hands, they're easy pickings. Whether it's a classic pickpocket or a sneaky distraction theft, here's how to outsmart them:

• Be Aware, Be Safe: Keep your eyes peeled, especially in crowded areas. Don't let your phone become a blindfold!
• Secure Your Phone: Stash your phone in zipped pockets or crossbody bags. Hands-free options like headphones keep your phone safe and let you stay alert.
• Don't Be a Target: Avoid distractions in unfamiliar areas and be wary of lending your phone to strangers.
• Tech Up Your Defence: Use strong passwords and consider a phone finder app.

Lanyards: Use Them Wisely

Lanyards can deter theft, but use them strategically:

• Attached Advantage: Keeps your phone close, making snatching difficult.
• Quick Access: Easy access reduces fumbling and potential distraction.
• Beware the Snag: Be mindful of snags in crowded spaces.

Maximise Lanyard Power:

• Stay Alert: A lanyard is a helper, not a shield. Situational awareness is key.
• Strong Clasps: Choose lanyards with strong clasps to make detaching the phone hard.
• Case Connection: Phone cases with lanyard loops offer extra security.

Remember:

Lanyards are a tool, but combine them with other tips for ultimate protection. Stay aware, secure your phone, and don't be an easy target. With a little planning, your phone stays safe!

Further information:

• Mobile phone advice from the Met
• Mobile Phone Registration: A Step by Step Guide
• Protect your mobile phone against criminals on bikes and mopeds
• Find Your Stolen Phone: Lock or Erase a Lost Device
• Mobile phone theft UK

Look out for anyone on a bike or moped near you

Don't text while walking

Consider using hands-free.

Romance scams are on the rise - here are the red flags 🚩

The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau reported that victims of romance fraud lost almost £100m last year. However, the financial loss doesn't account for the scale of damage – the psychological impact on the victim can be devastating.

To find out more about how romance scams work, Which? speak to two scam victims who were conned by fraudsters on dating apps and explain how you can stay safe.

Romance scams

Source: Which? (10 Jul 2024)

Podcast: Is a scammer targeting you?

In this week's Which? Shorts podcast, we tell you about the popular scams that we've discovered so far in 2024. Which? also give you our best tips on how to spot them and how to keep yourself safe from online scams.

Podcast: latest scams

Source: Which? (10 Jul 2024)

AI keto diet pill scam

Which? are warning Facebook users to beware of scammers peddling keto diet pills using AI-generated 'before' and 'after' photos of people. And dodgy Facebook accounts tagging users on the platform in posts that show fake weight loss transformations.

Which? unpack the latest keto diet pill scam and advice on how to spot a social media scam.

Social media scams

Source: Which? (10 Jul 2024)

Fire at garages - Sidcup 🔥

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackled a fire on Penshurst Avenue in Sidcup.

Half of one garage was damaged by fire. One further garage, one garden shed and one vehicle inside a garage were destroyed by fire. Around six people were led to safety by firefighters from neighbouring properties. There have been no reports of any injuries.

Firefighters removed and cooled one gas cylinder to an ambient temperature as a precaution as some cylinders can explode when exposed to heat. 

The Brigade's Control Officers received more than 10 calls about the fire.

The Brigade was called at 1336 and the fire was brought under control by 1446. Crews from Sidcup, Eltham, Bexley and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Source: LFB (02 July 2024)

Heads Up! Phishing Scam Targeting Prime Video Subscriptions

Bexley Watch are sharing this to warn everyone about a phishing email circulating that claims a recent Prime Video subscription payment failed.

Here are the red flags:

• The email is dated July 9th, 2024, but claims your payment failed for a subscription.
• It uses scare tactics urging immediate action to update payment details.
• The email includes a suspicious reference number ("ID953326") and a generic "Thank you, Prime Video Support Team" message.

This is a scam!

Here's what to do:

• Do not click on any links in the email.
• Do not enter any personal information.
• Report the email as phishing to your email provider.

How to check your Prime Video subscription:

• Log in to your Amazon account directly through https://www.amazon.com/ (not a link in the email).
• Go to "Your Account" and navigate to "Prime Membership" to check your subscription status and payment information.

If you're concerned about your account:

• Contact Amazon customer service directly through their website or app for assistance.

Please share this information with anyone who might have received this email.

By staying vigilant, we can protect ourselves and others from these scams.

Fight Spam with Email Aliases

Aliases are a great tool to help reduce spam in your inbox. Here's how they work:

• Creating an Alias: An alias is essentially a different email address that forwards emails to your main inbox. You can create aliases with many email providers or use third-party services like Firefox Relay (https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/create-email-mask-through-firefox-relay).
• Using Aliases Strategically: The key to reducing spam is to use a different alias for every website or service you sign up for. This way, if a website leaks your email address or starts sending spam, only that specific alias gets affected.
• Benefits of Aliases: There are several advantages to using aliases:
• Reduced Spam: By containing spam to specific aliases, you can keep your main inbox clean and organized.
• Privacy Protection: You don't have to give out your real email address to every site, reducing the risk of your information being sold or breached.
• Easy Unsubscribe: If you start receiving spam on a specific alias, you can simply delete it without affecting your main account.
• Limitations of Aliases: It's important to remember that aliases aren't a foolproof solution:
• Not All Services Accept Aliases: Some websites might not recognize email addresses with "+" symbols or other characters used for creating aliases.
• Catch-All Issues: Enabling "catch-all" on your domain to accept any email address can backfire, turning your inbox into a spam magnet.

Overall, aliases are a valuable tool in your fight against spam. By using them strategically and understanding their limitations, you can significantly reduce unwanted emails and protect your privacy.

Useful videos:

Check if your email address is in a data breach at https://haveibeenpwned.com/

Report phishing https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/news/phishing

Keep your bicycle safe with free bike marking on these upcoming dates!

Do you love cycling around Sidcup? Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, keeping your bike safe is important. A great way to deter theft and increase your chances of getting your bike back if it is stolen is to get it security marked.

The good news is there are free bike marking events happening in Sidcup over the next few days! Here's where you can get your bike marked:

• Morrison's Sidcup: Wednesday, July 10th from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Tesco Sidcup, Edgington Way: Friday, July 12th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Bexleyheath Broadway: Friday, July 13th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Marlowe House, Sidcup: Saturday, July 14th from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Getting your bike marked is a quick and easy process. The police will typically record your frame number and apply a visible security marking to your bike. This marking can be a deterrent to thieves, and it can also help the police identify your bike if it is stolen.

So why not take advantage of these free events and get your bike marked? It's a simple step that could help you keep your bike safe.

Here are some additional benefits of getting your bike marked:

• Peace of mind: Knowing your bike is marked can give you peace of mind when you're out and about.
• Increased chance of recovery: If your bike is stolen, a security marking can make it easier for the police to identify and return it to you.
• Reduced insurance premiums: Some insurance companies offer discounts for bikes that are security marked.

So what are you waiting for? Get down to one of these free bike marking events and keep your bike safe!

Source: Bexley Police @ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=877814637718825&set=a.629423115891313

See Source and dates above - https://www.bikeregister.com/

How to Report a Lost or Stolen Vehicle in the UK

Has your car vanished? Don't panic! Follow these steps to locate it or report it stolen:

Double-Check Parking:

It might sound obvious, but a surprisingly common reason for a "missing" car is simply forgetting where you parked it. Take a moment to retrace your steps and ensure you haven't misplaced it.

GPS Tracking:

Many modern cars have built-in GPS trackers for theft or loss situations. If yours does, contact your tracking service first. They'll locate your car and, if stolen, likely contact the police on your behalf.

Check with TRACE (London Only):

If you're in London, consider your car towed for illegal parking. TRACE is a service that helps locate vehicles towed by any London council. They'll tell you where your car is and how to get it back. You can use their online form or call them at 0300 077 0100 (textphone 0300 123 2050).

Contact DVLA (Untaxed Vehicles):

If your car lacked valid tax, it might have been impounded by NSL on behalf of the DVLA. Check the DVLA website for information on retrieving vehicles from their pounds.

Report a Stolen Vehicle:

If you genuinely believe your car has been stolen, report it to the police as soon as possible, or use @MetCC.

Remember:

• Gather details like your car's registration number, make, model, and colour before contacting the authorities.
• This guide is a starting point. Procedures may vary slightly depending on your location.

Source: How to Report a Lost or Stolen Vehicle in the UK

Beware Fake Skechers Ads: Protect Yourself from Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are circulating on Facebook disguised as ads for Skechers shoes. These ads lead to malicious websites designed to steal your personal information.

How to Report Phishing Scams:

• Report scam ads on Facebook by selecting the three dots in the top right corner and clicking "report."
• Report phishing websites to the National Cyber Security Centre: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/about-this-website/contact-us

How Scammers Target You:

Scammers use spear-phishing tactics, leveraging personal information from your online activity and social media profiles to craft believable scams. The more information you share online, the easier it is for scammers to target you.

Protect Yourself Online:

• Use temporary email addresses for online registrations to minimise data leaks. Consider services like Temp Mail or Apple's Hide My Email (with iCloud subscription).
• Check for data breaches at haveibeenpwned.com. Google users can check passwords.google.com/checkup for compromised login credentials.
• Install antivirus software on your devices (laptops and desktops) to safeguard your data.
• Keep social media profiles private and avoid oversharing personal details.
• Be cautious of unsolicited messages, especially those offering unbelievable deals or requesting personal information. Don't click on links in suspicious messages.
• Verify the legitimacy of messages directly with the company website (not through links). If unsure, contact the company using the information on their official website.

By following these tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim to phishing scams.

New hacking scam

If you’re a Facebook user it’s important to be on the lookout for a new hacked account scam that could leave your device infected with malware. Fraudsters are posting malicious links from compromised accounts which result in you downloading malware onto your device, infecting it with dodgy pop-ups.

We’ve investigated the new hacking scam currently doing the rounds. Read our advice to help spot and avoid this scam.

Facebook hacking scam

Source: Which? (03 Jul 2024)

How to report a scam

New figures shared by Action Fraud have revealed an increase in the number of scams being reported. More than 32 million scam emails have been reported to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service.

By reporting a scam, it helps investigators to find links to other scams run by the same people, identify the culprits and prevent them from creating more scams. We explain 5 key reasons why it’s so important to report scams when you spot them and how to do it.

Help fight scams

Source: Which? (02 Jul 2024)