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Update from IWASP Scam Alerts
We are receiving lots of reports about doorstep sellers claiming to be ex cons and trying to sell household items. These have previously been know as Nottingham Knockers as this is where the scheme originated however the person at your door could be anyone so Trading Standards are warning you to avoid answering the door to them.
They will be trying to sell overpriced poor quality household items such as cloths, brushes, cleaners etc and are known to target elderly and potentially vulnerable residents, many of whom will buy something out of kindness or even intimidation. These “traders” can operate in teams and may well be gleaning information about the houses they knock on so that they can be targeted at a later date. They will pick up if you live alone, or if you go to get a purse full of cash for example.
- NEVER trade with anyone on your doorstep and NEVER allow them access to your property.
- If you don’t know whos at your door don’t answer it
- Using a door chain can help with feeling safe at home and these can be easily installed. The Blue Lamp Trust provides free home security visits and advice to vulnerable and elderly people on the Island
- NO Cold Calling Door Stickers can be used as a tool to prevent doorstep traders as it is an offence if a trader refuses to leave if a homeowner is displaying a sticker. These are available from trading.standards@iow.gov.uk
If a doorstep trader refuses to leave call the police on 101 and advise Trading Standards on 01983 823371
Please be on the lookout for the following scams and don’t fall victim to them
- Emails are being received purporting to be from the Government. They have the Government logo and a crown on them in an attempt to make them look authentic. They state that you are eligible for a discount under the Energy Bill Support Scheme and ask you to click on a link to provide details to receive the discount. Along with your name, phone number and address they ask for your date of birth along with your bank details to receive the discount. This is a SCAM do not click on the link and definitely do not provide any details, scammers are relying on our increased vulnerability due to the current cost of living crisis.
- Residents report receiving calls alleging to be the fraud department of your bank claiming that payments have been taken for online sales and they will try to get you to download an app onto your device that will give them remote access. This is a scam and once you have given them the access they will be able to glean information about you and potentially take all of your money. This type of scam was investigated in this weeks episode of Scam Interceptors on BBC1. By using ethical hackers they were able to intercept the scam and prevent the victim from losing their money. If you receive a phone call claiming to be your bank and trying to get you to give them access to your device hang up immediately, close your device down and contact your bank on the number on the back of your card or by calling 159 and selecting your bank. NEVER give anyone remote access to your device.
- We have had a report form a resident saying that she is getting constant phone calls from somebody saying that her computer isn’t working properly and they are offering to fix it – they will then try to gain remote access to your device in an attempt to defraud you. Luckily this lady recognised this as a scam however they continued to harass her throughout they day becoming rude and aggressive. If you don’t recognise the number calling you DON’T answer the phone or look into some form of call blocking
- Be wary of any pop ups or emails claiming that your device security has expired and asking you to click on a link to renew it. If you aren’t sure when it expires free security is available from a selection of companies online, or you can purchase this from trusted traders.
If you receive a call purporting to be your bank you should hang up, wait 10 minutes then contact your bank by calling 159 and then select the correct option for your bank – this is a secure way of verifying if it really was your bank contacting you
To report a scam text – forward the message to 7726
To report a scam email – forward the message to report@phishing.gov.uk
Scams can also be reported to Which – Which? – Scam Sharer
If you have lost money to a scam your first port of call should be to your Bank and Action Fraud.
Remember – STOP – THINK – CHALLENGE
Reporting a Scam
- For advice on scams call – Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline: 0808 250 5050
- To report a scam call – Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040
If you are concerned about somebody you care about or for more information on scams visit.
Stay Safe
Kind Regards,
WightFibre Customer Service Team
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