With Black Friday just around the corner, November can be a great month for grabbing a bargain. But beware as criminals may also be looking to treat themselves – to your money.
Online shoppers may be targeted with fake websites to trick people into buying goods or services that never materialise.
Follow these three steps for safer shopping:
STOP:
Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. Only give your personal or financial information to sellers you know are legitimate.
CHALLENGE:
Could it be fake? It’s ok 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 been scammed and report it to Action Fraud at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Find out more at https://www.takefivestopfraud.org.uk
Further information on keeping you and your home safe can be found on the Neighbourhood Watch page.