How to protect yourself from scams in Cumbria this New Year
Crimestoppers are sharing tips so people can avoid fraud during the festive season.
People across Cumbria are being urged to be cautious of scammers this festive season as fraud can be particularly common during this time of year.
Crimestoppers has warned that scammers often target people around Christmas and New Year with offers that appear too good to be true or requests for payments that turn out to be fraudulent.
Gary Murray from Crimestoppers in the North West said:
“When something comes into your inbox, which seems to be good to be true, then it is probably a scam.”
To avoid becoming a victim of fraud, Crimestoppers have shared tips to help keep you safe online and during transactions this Christmas.
Protect your online accounts
Using secure passwords is one of the best ways to keep your accounts safe.
Crimestoppers advises that the password for your email account should be different from all other passwords for online accounts.
Creating strong and memorable passwords can be achieved by using three random words and enabling 2-step verification (2SV) on accounts whenever possible.
Do your research before committing money
Before making big financial decisions such as purchasing event tickets, holidays, or donating to a charity, do a thorough online search to check the authenticity of the organisation.
Gary Murray added:
“Make sure that the site you’re purchasing from is legitimate. If you look at the search box on the left-hand side, there is a little symbol, as like two tennis rackets on its side, and that will tell you that the site is a genuine site.”
Be cautious when sending money
Avoid bank transfers if possible and use a credit card when making purchases online, as these provide extra security.
Crimestoppers emphasised that trusted organisations will not pressure you into transferring money immediately.
Fraudsters are likely to rush or pressure victims, so take the time you need to verify the legitimacy of the request.
Be wary of unsolicited contact
Scammers might take advantage of email, text messages, QR codes, or reach out on social media with cheap deals or suspiciously low-priced holidays and items.
Crimestoppers advises double-checking the authenticity of items or services advertised before committing to purchases or paying upfront fees.
According to Gary Murray:
“Nowadays, probably everybody has been a victim of some type of fraud. It is so prevalent and there are so many ways you can be caught out. I would encourage anyone who has been a victim to report fraud, report it to the police, or report it to your bank.”