Beware of the Amazon Charge Scam!

Have you received a suspicious phone call claiming there's an unauthorised charge on your Amazon account? We've been hearing reports of a new scam targeting unsuspecting customers. Here's what you need to know:

The Scam:

• Caller: You'll receive a call from a number, often with a local area code, claiming to be from Amazon's fraud department.
• Claim: The caller will state that there's a pending £300 Amazon charge and a £1,100 International money order on your credit card.
• Action: You'll be urged to press "1" to confirm your bank details. Be warned: this is a trap to obtain your personal financial information.

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Don't Engage: If you receive such a call, do not press any buttons or provide any personal information.
2. Hang Up Immediately: End the call as soon as possible to prevent further attempts to gather your data.
3. Verify with Amazon: If you're concerned about your Amazon account, contact Amazon directly using the phone number or email address listed on their official website. Never use contact information provided by the caller.
4. Report the Scam: File a complaint with the police and inform your bank about the attempted fraud. This will help authorities track down the scammers and protect others from falling victim.

Remember: Amazon will never call you asking for your personal financial information. If you receive a suspicious call, be cautious and take immediate action to safeguard your account.

Share this information with your friends and family to help raise awareness about this scam.

Heads Up, Students! Top Frauds to Avoid This School Year

Starting a new school or university year is exciting! But before you get swept up in the whirlwind of freshers' events and new friends, be aware: young people are prime targets for fraudsters.

Action Fraud, the UK's national fraud and cybercrime reporting service, has some sobering statistics. In 2023, nearly 69,000 people aged 11-29 reported fraud, with a total loss of a whopping £143.7 million.

Here are the top five fraud types students need to be aware of:

• Investment Fraud: Dreaming of quick cash? Scammers love targeting students with promises of high-return investments, especially in cryptocurrency. They often operate through social media, so be skeptical of any "get rich quick" schemes you see online.

• Fake Job Fraud: Hunting for that perfect part-time job? Watch out for fraudulent job ads. These scams aim to steal your personal information or money by asking for upfront payments for consultations or "extra help" finding a job.

• Rental Fraud: Finding student accommodation can be stressful. Unfortunately, fraudsters exploit this by advertising fake properties and pressuring you to pay fees upfront. Never send money without seeing the property in person and verifying its legitimacy.

• Online Shopping Fraud: Everyone loves a good deal, but be cautious! Fraudulent websites often mimic legitimate retailers to trick you into providing your personal and financial information for purchases that never arrive.

• Ticket Fraud: Excited about that upcoming concert or event? Beware of fake tickets! Students searching for cheap deals on events like freshers' week can easily fall prey to this scam.

Protecting Yourself from Fraud:

Don't become a statistic! Here's how to stay safe:

• Secure Your Accounts: Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts. Consider using three random words and enabling two-step verification (2SV) for added security.

• Be Smart About Money Transfers: Avoid sending money through bank transfers, especially under pressure. Legitimate organisations won't rush you. For online purchases, consider using a credit card for better protection.

• Beware of Unsolicited Contact: From unbelievable deals to suspicious rentals advertised online, double-check everything before committing.

Reporting Fraud:

If you suspect fraud, take action:

• Report suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk
• Report suspicious texts or spam calls to 7726

Need More Help?

Visit Action Fraud's student safety campaign for more tips: actionfraud.police.uk/studentsafety

Remember, if you've been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud:

• Online: actionfraud.police.uk
• Phone: 0300 123 2040 (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Phone: 101 (Scotland)

Stay safe and have a fantastic school year!

Source: Action Fraud (26-08-2024)

https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/news/studentsafety

Millions are targeted by pension scammers

According to new data from LV=, one in seven UK adults has been the subject of an attempted pension scam in the past 12 months.

With scammers becoming increasingly sophisticated and pension rule changes providing more opportunities for fraudsters looking to steal your savings, make sure you're able to spot the warning signs.

Be savvy on pension fraud

Source: Which? (23 Aug 2024)

How to spot a job scam

September is a popular time of year for job seekers, which means scammers, posing as recruiters, are primed and ready with exciting offers designed to steal money and personal details.

If you or a loved one are thinking of changing jobs, check out some of the common tactics used in this type of fraud.

What to look out for

Source: Which? (28 Aug 2024)

Warning of Booking.com holiday home ‘scams’

Holidays should be a time to unwind, but for hundreds of Booking.com customers who say they paid for accommodation that turned out not to be real, their trips were anything but relaxing.

Some guests were forced to sleep in their car as a result, while others struggled to get a refund. Find out how to avoid being scammed on booking sites.

Avoid suspicious listings

Source: Which? (23 Aug 2024)

E-bike safety animation video

The battery in your e-bike or e-scooter could be putting you and others at risk. The London Fire Brigade says e-bikes and e-scooters are London’s fastest growing fire risk. In 2023, there was two e-bike or e-scooter related fires in Tower Hamlets every month. Working with the London Fire Brigade, Tower Hamlets Council has created an animation that will show you on how to spot the signs of a faulty battery, how to safely shop for e-bike batteries, how to prevent fires and what to do in the case of a fire.

https://youtu.be/lYjJaPTvhTg?si=yNUpt3VmOI07XoZC

ID theft on the rise

Identity theft is when your personal details are stolen and used to obtain goods and services in your name – and new data shows that cases have soared this year.

Over 127,000 cases were recorded in the first half of 2024 – we take a closer look at the data and explain how you can protect yourself.

How to avoid ID theft

Source: Which? (21 Aug 2024)

The most convincing HMRC scam yet?

An incredibly convincing scam letter is doing the rounds, purporting to be from HMRC. However, there's one tell-tale sign that gives it away.

Find out what to look out for and what you should do if you suspect a letter you've received is an HMRC scam.

How to spot a scam letter

Source: Which? (21 Aug 2024)

Latest delivery scam tactics

Evri and UPS are the latest companies being impersonated in scam texts and emails. These messages attempt to con victims with claims of 'missing address information' and requests to 'reschedule' a delivery.

Discover the latest tactics being used in this type of scam so you know what to watch out for.

Don't be duped by dodgy deliveries

Source: Which? (20 Aug 2024)

Bexley SNT List of Bexley Safer Neighbourhoods Teams by Wards

Finding or navigating your way through the list by ward for the London Borough of Bexley, by BBNWA, screenvideo. [No sound]

Source: https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/p/bexley-snt-list.html

 👈 Click here to visit the youtube channel to view the video.

Attempted Break-In in New Eltham

Be Alert!

There was an attempted break-in last night on Gerda Road, New Eltham. The intruders accessed the property through the back garden on the even-numbered side of the road. Thankfully, they were disturbed and fled the scene.

The incident has been reported to the police, but we want to make our community aware of this attempted break-in. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Safety Tips:

• Lock up: Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, even when at home.
• Lighting: Consider installing external lighting with motion sensors.
• Security systems: Explore options for alarms or CCTV systems.
• Be neighbourly: Keep an eye out for your neighbours and report any unusual activity.

Let's work together to keep our neighbourhood safe.

#NewEltham #CommunityAlert #SafetyFirst

Source: Nextdoor

5 things our scam expert would never do

Nobody is immune to being scammed, and although she's not yet fallen victim, even our scams expert knows it could happen to her.

Find out the five things Faye Lipson will never do, to help her stay ahead of the fraudsters – even as their tactics evolve.

What not to do

Source: Which? (14 Aug 2024)

NHS scam cost victim £5,000

After losing £5,000 to a convincing NHS scam, the victim was only reimbursed 50% by Santander. But after following Which? advice, they were able to reclaim the full amount.

Discover how it worked, what to look out for and what you should do if you fall victim to a similar scam.

How to recover your money

Source: Which? (13 Aug 2024)

Scams for students to watch out for

If you or a loved one are getting ready to start a new term, make sure you're clued up on the most common scams targeted at students.

Losses can range from a few quid to tens of thousands of pounds, so a few minutes reading our guide now could save you a lot of time and money down the road.

Swot up on scams

Source: Which? (15 Aug 2024)

Don't Be a Victim: Protect Your Car from Keyless Theft

A Wake-Up Call

Imagine waking up to an empty driveway. No broken windows, no signs of forced entry. Your luxury BMW, simply vanished. This isn’t a scene from a movie; it’s a reality for an increasing number of car owners. The culprit? A sophisticated crime known as a 'relay attack'.

In this method, thieves use electronic devices to intercept and clone the signal from your key fob, which is often innocently sitting inside your home. Within minutes, your car is gone without a trace.

Spotting the Suspicious

Unlike the stereotypical car thief, these criminals often blend into the background. Here are some signs to watch out for:

• Loitering: Individuals hanging around your property or car for extended periods.
• Electronic Gadgets: People using multiple electronic devices near your car or home.
• Recurring Appearances: The same person or vehicle repeatedly appearing in your vicinity.

Safeguarding Your Car

While it's disheartening, it's crucial to take proactive steps to protect your vehicle:

• Key Control: Store your keys and fobs away from doors, windows, and any visible areas.
• Faraday Cage: Invest in a signal-blocking pouch (Faraday bag) to shield your key fob from interception.
• Disable Wireless: If possible, turn off the wireless signal on your key fob. Check your manual or consult your car manufacturer.
• Steering Wheel Lock: A physical deterrent can still be highly effective.
• Garage It Up: If you have a garage, use it.
• Strategic Parking: If you have multiple cars, park the more valuable one behind another.
• Protect Your OBD Port: Thieves can access your car's computer through the OBD port. Consider relocating it, using a protective cover, or upgrading your car's security system.
• Vehicle Tracker: While not a prevention method, a tracker can significantly increase the chances of recovering your stolen car.

Stay Informed

By understanding the methods used by car thieves and taking preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to this crime. Stay vigilant and protect your investment.

Excellent Resources

For some excellent advice and tips from the charity Crimestoppers that has been published this week, please click on the below link to access their information on Keyless Vehicle Theft. Their advice provides some excellent and sensible options to consider and potentially take to protect your vehicles with keyless entry systems from being stolen.

Crimestoppers - The Invisible Threat: The Rise in Keyless Vehicle Theft
https://crimestoppers-uk.org/news-campaigns/news/2024/aug/the-invisible-threat-the-rise-in-keyless-vehicle-theft

Grass fire - Erith 🔥

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a grass fire on Whitehall Lane in Erith. 

Around four hectares of grass was alight. 

Control Officers took over 30 calls regarding the fire. The first call was received at 1436 and the fire was under control by 1557. Crews from Sidcup, Bexley and Plumstead Fire Stations attended the scene alongside Kent Fire & Rescue Service. 

Today's fire comes as London experiences temperatures of over 20 degrees Celcius. During this type of weather, the risk of grass fires increases and the Brigade is asking the public to follow crucial safety advice that will help protect themselves, others, the environment and their property.

London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Craig Carter, said: "We know many Londoners will want to enjoy the nice weather by visiting a park or open space. However, we’re asking people not to take disposable barbecues with them as they can cause grass fires, especially in hot weather when the ground is dry. These fires are unpredictable and can spread rapidly, causing a significant amount of damage.

"Don’t be tempted to barbecue on your balcony either. Balconies can contain combustible materials which can pose a risk to those barbecuing and others living nearby.

"If you are having a barbecue, never leave it unattended and be careful where it’s positioned. Aim for level ground and keep barbecues well away from anything flammable like sheds, fences, trees or tents."

As well as disposable barbecues, discarded smoking materials and leftover rubbish also pose a huge fire risk. People are asked to ensure their rubbish is placed securely inside a bin or to take it home with them. If you have had a cigarette, please make sure that it is completely out.

London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Craig Carter, said: "We know many Londoners will want to enjoy the nice weather by visiting a park or open space. However, we’re asking people not to take disposable barbecues with them as they can cause grass fires, especially in hot weather when the ground is dry. These fires are unpredictable and can spread rapidly, causing a significant amount of damage.

"Don’t be tempted to barbecue on your balcony either. Balconies can contain combustible materials which can pose a risk to those barbecuing and others living nearby.

"If you are having a barbecue, never leave it unattended and be careful where it’s positioned. Aim for level ground and keep barbecues well away from anything flammable like sheds, fences, trees or tents."

As well as disposable barbecues, discarded smoking materials and leftover rubbish also pose a huge fire risk. People are asked to ensure their rubbish is placed securely inside a bin or to take it home with them. If you have had a cigarette, please make sure that it is completely out.

Source: LFB (09 Aug 2024)

Beware the Evri Phishing Scam: Protect Yourself from Parcel Thieves

Have you received a suspicious text message claiming to be from Evri? Be on high alert! A new phishing scam is circulating, targeting unsuspecting recipients with fake delivery notifications.

How the Scam Works

The scam typically involves a text message claiming that your Evri parcel couldn't be delivered due to an unclear address. It then directs you to a fraudulent website to update your details. Once you enter your personal information, scammers can gain access to your accounts and steal your identity.

Key Indicators of a Phishing Scam

• Urgent and vague language: The message often creates a sense of urgency without providing specific details about the package.
• Suspicious links: The link provided in the text message will lead to a fake website, not the official Evri platform.
• Poor grammar and spelling: Phishing scams often contain grammatical errors and typos.

How to Protect Yourself

• Ignore the message: Delete the text message without clicking any links.
• Do not share personal information: Never provide your personal details, such as your address, bank details, or credit card information, in response to unsolicited messages.
• Be cautious of unexpected links: Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or text messages.
• Verify the sender: If you're unsure about a message, contact Evri directly through their official channels to verify the information.

Report the Scam

If you believe you have been a victim of a phishing scam, report it to Action Fraud, the UK's national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre. You can report online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this and other scams.

Share this information with your friends and family to help raise awareness.

Evri phishing scam text

[Click screenshot to view enlarged]

Keywords: Evri scam, phishing scam, parcel delivery scam, online fraud, cybercrime, data protection, online safety.

QR code scam warning

QR codes are a common sight in restaurants, pubs and car parks. But scammers are still hijacking them to set subscription traps.

After scanning a dodgy code, people find they've been charged for subscriptions they didn't sign up for, by companies they've never heard of. Take a look at recent traps we've seen and use our five tips to scan QR codes safely.

How to spot a dodgy code

Source: Which? (07 Aug 2024)

Beware fake Amazon calls and emails

Amazon has issued a warning about dodgy calls and emails targeting shoppers.

From Amazon Prime membership expiry messages, callers impersonating the online retailer and fake customer survey emails, find out the latest tactics being used by scammers.

Stay primed against Amazon scams

Source: Which? (05 Aug 2024)

Trending: Microsoft and NatWest scams

Which? scam tracker is always kept up to date with the latest trending scams you should be aware of.

This month, watch out for a Microsoft impersonation email and a nasty NatWest scam that's doing the rounds.

Keep up to date

Source: Which? (07 Aug 2024)

#ChargeSafe: The warning signs e-bikes & e-scooters could start a fire

Before a failing lithium battery catches fire, there are often a few warning signs. If you see any of these signs. You will need to take immediate action to stay safe and reduce the risk of fire.

The warning signs your e-bike or e-bike battery is a fire hazard

Heat: It’s normal for batteries to generate some heat when charging or in use. However if your device’s battery feels extremely hot to the touch, there’s chance it’s defective and may start a fire

Bulging: A battery bulging or swelling out of shape is a common sign of it failing. If your battery looks swollen, you should stop using it immediately. Similar signs include any type of lump or leaking from the device

Noise: Failing lithium batteries have also been reported to make hissing or cracking sounds

Smell: If you notice a strong or unusual smell coming from the battery, this could also be a sign of it failing 

Performance: A failure to fully charge or longer charge times can be a sign that your battery is failing

Smoke: If your battery or device is smoking, a fire has already started

What you should do if your lithium battery is a fire risk

If your battery shows any of these signs of failing, immediately turn off the device and unplug it from the power source.  Call the device manufacturer or retailer for further instructions.  

If you’ve spotted the warning signs, make sure you  report your faulty battery to your local Trading Standards office.

What to do if your lithium battery catches fire

If the device starts smoking or catches fire:

• ⚡get out
• ⚡raise the alarm and call 999 immediately
• ⚡stay out and do not try to tackle the fire yourself

Disposing of a lithium battery

Lithium batteries should not be placed in the same bins as your regular rubbish or recycling. If they get damaged or overheat, they may cause it to catch fire. Instead check your local authority's website or recycle your electricals for the safe way to dispose of lithium batteries in your area.

Source: LFB and on X

#ChargeSafe - https://tinyurl.com/2cf6q92u

[Click image to view enlarged]

Know your rights:

All retailers selling electrical goods are obliged to take back items for recycling.

SCAMARAMA UPDATE: Keeping Your Data Safe on Your Computer

Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch has witnessed the significant advancements in technology, particularly with computers, the internet, and social media. While these innovations have transformed our lives, they've also introduced new risks. We have consistently warned residents about the potential dangers lurking in the digital world.

Our greatest concern has always been the catastrophic consequences of a system failure. Recent events, such as the widespread attacks of hackers and scammers, and the unprecedented global Microsoft outage, have highlighted this risk.

Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch urges all residents to prioritise internet security and regular data backups.

Protecting Your Precious Data Most people have experienced the frustration of losing access to important data. Backing up your data is crucial to prevent such heart-wrenching losses.

A backup is a copy of your important data stored in a secure location. This can be in the cloud or on physical storage like a USB drive or external hard drive.

There are countless reasons why you might need a backup:

• Your device is lost, stolen, or broken.
• Accidental deletion of files.
• Data corruption due to viruses or malware.
• Transitioning to a new device.

Backing up your data doesn’t have to be complicated. Most operating systems offer built-in backup options, and there are numerous third-party backup services available.

Essential Tips:

• Regularity: Back up your data frequently to minimise data loss.
• Variety: Use multiple backup methods for added protection.
• Security: Ensure your backup location is secure to prevent unauthorised access.
• Testing: Regularly test your backups to verify data integrity.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of losing valuable data. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in safeguarding your digital assets.

Backing Up Using Cloud Storage:

If you use cloud storage, a backup of your data is stored on the internet. Popular providers include Apple, Google, and Microsoft. Many of these services offer some free cloud storage space, which might be enough to save your most important files.

For more tips and advice on online security and data backup, visit the National Cyber Security Centre website:

https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online/always-back-up-your-most-important-data 

Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch is committed to keeping our community safe. By taking a proactive approach to data security, you can protect yourself from digital threats and ensure your precious files are always accessible.

Keeping Your Shed or Garage Safe and Secure: Don't Be an Easy Target

Many people underestimate the importance of shed and garage security. Unlike our homes, these outbuildings often get secured with minimal effort, making them prime targets for opportunistic thieves. But what they might not realize is that a break-in at your shed can be a stepping stone to a bigger crime – giving them the tools they need to break into your house!

The First Steps to Shed and Outbuilding Security:

• Insurance Check: Before you invest in security measures, make sure your insurance covers the contents of your shed or outbuilding in case of theft.
• Think Like a Thief: Walk around your shed and see how easy it would be to break in. Are the hinges flimsy? Is the lock easily defeated? Windows a weak point? Address these vulnerabilities first. Invest in a strong padlock with no exposed screws, and consider reinforcing the door hinges. Secure any windows with wire mesh or security grills.

Deterring Theft with Alarms and Smart Practices:

• Silent Guardian, Alarming Friend: A discreet, battery-operated shed alarm can be a great deterrent. Activated by movement or door contact, these alarms pack a punch with loud sirens, scaring off would-be thieves.
• Lock it Up, Hide it Away, Mark it Down: Make it difficult for thieves to steal by securing your belongings. Lock tools away in a strong chest or box, or chain them to a secure anchor. Bicycles should be chained to the ground or a secure stand within the locked shed. Check out Sold Secure (https://www.soldsecure.com/approved-product-search) for top-rated ground anchors and other locking solutions.
• Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Draping an old sheet or blanket over your bike or lawnmower can deter theft by keeping them hidden from view.
• Simple Security Habits: This might seem obvious, but always keep your shed or garage door locked when not in use, and keep the door closed even when you are around.

Taking Extra Precautions: Property Marking and Registration:

• Mark Your Territory: Property marking discourages theft and increases your chances of recovering stolen items. Paint your name or postcode on valuable tools, or consider using a forensic marking solution.
• Register Your Valuables: Immobilise (https://www.immobilise.com/help/reportingitemslostorstolen) allows you to register items with serial numbers, making them easier to track down if stolen.

Seeking Professional Help:

A professional locksmith from the Master Locksmiths Association (https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/) can provide invaluable advice on the most effective security measures for your shed and garage door. They can even handle installation for you. Many locksmiths offer comprehensive home security surveys, helping you identify weak points throughout your property.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft from your shed or garage. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in protecting your valuable belongings and keeping your home safe.

The top five most common items stolen from sheds:

1. Bikes
2. Mowers
3. Sports equipment
4. Power tools
5. Garden tools

Bexley Crime stats ward summary Jul 2024

Source: Bexley Watch Viz

Club house fire - Sidcup 🔥

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a fire at a sports club house on Oxford Road in Sidcup.

The single storey building was partially damaged by fire. Five gas cylinders at the scene were cooled to an ambient temperature and removed, as some cylinders can explode when exposed to heat. There were no injuries.

The Brigade was called at 0332 and the fire was under control by 0507. Crews from Sidcup, Eltham and Orpington fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Source: LFB (05 Aug 2024)

Don't Click! Phishing Scam Alert

This is a phishing scam pretending to be from Royal Mail. Here's why you shouldn't click the link:

• Suspicious Sender: "eiger_hurmekoski@fastest-web.de" is not a legitimate Royal Mail email address.
• Urgency and Threat: Phishing scams often create a sense of urgency or threaten negative consequences if you don't act immediately.
• Generic Link: The link "[invalid URL removed]" doesn't look like an official Royal Mail website address.

Here's what you can do:

• Do not click the link.
• Report the scam to Royal Mail. You can report phishing attempts to Royal Mail by forwarding the suspicious text message to reportascam@royalmail.com.
• Delete the text message.

Here are some additional tips to avoid phishing scams:

• Be cautious of unsolicited messages, even if they appear to be from a legitimate company.
• Never click on links within suspicious messages.
• If you're unsure about the legitimacy of a message, contact the company directly using a phone number or website address you know is correct.
• Be wary of messages that pressure you to take immediate action.

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

 

phishing scam text

Virustotal reports it as phishing and malicious

[click each screenshot above to view enlarged]

For more information visit https://www.royalmail.com/help/scam-protection, and

https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/2024/07/dont-be-fooled-protect-yourself-from.html

Fire at hospital - Sidcup 🔥

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters attended a fire at a hospital on Frognal Avenue in Sidcup.

Rubbish was alight on the lower ground floor of a waste incinerator building on the hospital site. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade was called at 1545 and the fire was extinguished by 1757. Crews from Orpington, Bromley, Lee Green and Bexley fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire has been recorded as accidental.

Source: LFB (03 Aug 2024)

InstaScam: bogus car leasing firm still active

Nine months after Which? first reported a phoney car leasing firm to Meta, the account is still active on Instagram – impersonating legitimate car dealers and stealing thousands.

In November 2023 we helped a victim of this scam recover £3,000 after they clicked on an Instagram ad and paid for a car that was never delivered. Find out more about what we found, and how to avoid similar scams.

Stay safe on social media

Source: Which? (30 Jul 2024)

Car finance compensation scam warning

Scammers are attempting to capitalise on the fact that millions of UK drivers could be owed compensation, by running fake ads on Facebook and Instagram claiming to help customers who've been mis-sold car finance.

Find out the best way to check if you're owed compensation, so you can safely ignore these dodgy posts.

Avoid compensation cons

Source: Which? (31 Jul 2024)

Worst banks for reimbursing fraud victims

Is your bank doing enough to reimburse victims of fraud? New data reveals an alarming gap between the best and worst banks for returning stolen money.

While the best firm returned 88% of customer losses, the worst returned just 9%.

See how your bank compares

Source: Which? (01 Aug 2024)

Secure Your Wallet: Adding Cards Safely

Digital wallets have revolutionised the way we pay, offering convenience and speed. But with this convenience comes the question of security. Are your cards safe when stored in Google Wallet or Apple Pay? The answer is: largely, yes.

How Do Digital Wallets Keep Your Cards Safe?

Both Google Wallet and Apple Pay utilise advanced security measures to protect your financial information:

• Tokenisation: Instead of storing your actual card number, a unique digital token is created for each transaction. This means even if a hacker gains access to your token, it's useless without the corresponding private key.
• Biometric Authentication: Adding an extra layer of protection, you can use fingerprint, facial recognition, or a passcode to authorise payments.  
• Encryption: All data stored and transmitted is encrypted, making it extremely difficult for unauthorised access.
• Regular Security Updates: Both platforms are committed to keeping your information safe and regularly update their systems with the latest security patches.

How to Add Your Card to Google or Apple Wallet

Adding your card is a straightforward process:

1. Open the Wallet app: Find the Google Wallet or Apple Wallet app on your device. 
2. Tap "Add to Wallet": This will initiate the card-adding process.
3. Enter card details: You can usually scan your card or manually input the information.
4. Verify your card: Your bank may require additional verification, like a code sent to your phone.
5. Confirm and add: Once verified, your card will be added to your wallet.

Peace of Mind: Freeze Your Card

One of the biggest advantages of digital wallets is the ability to quickly protect your finances. If you lose your physical card, you can often freeze it directly through your wallet app. This prevents unauthorised use until you can recover or replace your card.

Tips for Maximising Wallet Security

While digital wallets are secure, following these tips can enhance your protection:

• Strong Passcode: Create a complex and unique passcode for your device.
• Utilise Biometrics: Take advantage of fingerprint or facial recognition.
• Keep Software Updated: Ensure your device's operating system and wallet app are up-to-date.
• Beware of Phishing: Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages requesting your card information.

By following these guidelines and leveraging the security features of Google Wallet or Apple Pay, you can confidently enjoy the convenience of contactless payments.