In my last article about on-line safety, I will bring your attention to the risk we all face by various scams.
The public are defrauded out of a lot of money to fraudsters and whether you are an individual or have a small business, the effects can be life changing.
Hampshire Constabulary are always keen to know about crime and to support victims, however, it is recognised that some people will prefer to seek alternative advice or report fraud to other organisations.
Below are some of the charities and organisations who can assist. These are just a selection and I have tried to cover aa cross section, to include vulnerable and older people, business, social and travel.
For a more comprehensive list and further advice, then your local police force website will offer much more information. For Hampshire Constabulary, please use (https://www.hampshire.police.uk)
In today`s changing world of crime, I would urge you to take a look at the crime prevention advice offered on these websites, because it is often the simple advice that will protect you, such as ignoring unknown phone calls, e-mails or changing a password to one more secure, which will only involve adding a couple of characters.
If you’d prefer not to speak to the police or would like more specific advice, the charities, groups and organisations below can also provide information and support.
Action Fraud
Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.
0300 123 2040
Action on Elder Abuse (AEA)
AEA are a national charity working to protect and prevent the abuse of vulnerable older adults.
0808 808 8141
Alzheimer’s Society
A national charity providing advice and support for people affected by dementia.
0300 222 1122
Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA)
The largest travel trade association in the UK with over 1,200 members. All ABTA members must follow a strict code of conduct or face a fine or having the membership rescinded.
020 3117 5599
Citizens Advice
Free, independent and confidential advice to help you solve legal, money and other problems.
0345 404 0506
Cyber Aware
Cyber Aware provides cyber security advice for small business and individuals.
cyberaware.gov.uk
Federation of Small Businesses
The Federation of Small Businesses offers its members a wide range of vital business services, aiming to help smaller businesses achieve their ambitions.
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
Find and choose a financial adviser, or confirm whether your adviser is authorised.
0845 606 1234
If you think you’ve uncovered a scam, have been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, find out how to report it here.
We all use the internet for all manner of services and a simple check with some of the above organisations will let you know that they are genuine.
Reporting crime, including fraud, is important. If you don’t tell the authorities, how do they know it has happened and how can they do anything about it?
Remember, if you’re a victim of a scam or an attempted scam, however minor, there may be hundreds or thousands of others in a similar position. Your information may form part of one big jigsaw and may be vital to completing the picture.
