The Latest Frauds - Alert System From Kent Police

The ECRC works closely with local policing to ensure that our members benefit from the free tools and services offered.

One valuable tool is the Kent Fraud Email Alert System (K'FAs), created by Stephen Kelly, the Fraud Prevent and Protect Officer for Kent Police. This system provides weekly alerts to inform the public and businesses about current scams and how to best protect themselves.

The K'FAs, reach hundreds and thousands, not just in Kent but in other areas up and down the country as we are all affected by similar offences. The ECRC publishes Stephen Kelly's weekly K'FAs for our members so you can stay informed and learn about the latest threats targeting businesses and the general public. For further information about fraud, visit Advice About Fraud | Kent Police.

Possible Variation to Courier Fraud

South Wales Police have reported a new variation of Courier Fraud.

A victim had £16,000 stolen out of their hands on their doorstep by someone pretending to be a police officer.

The victim was telephoned earlier in the day by someone claiming to be a police officer, who instructed the man to withdraw the cash before somebody arrived at his house and 'snatched the money'.

Although we have not seen any report of this type of method in Kent, it is always worthwhile being aware of possible new emerging trends.

The following will take you to the full report - Cardiff: Warning after £16k stolen by man impersonating police officer - BBC News.

The Police will NEVER ask you for financial details on the phone or request to collect your card or cash or gold as part of an investigation.

Remember the ABC of Scam Awareness and Never Assume or Believe a call is genuine and always Confirm. If you get an unexpected call from someone claiming to be Police or any other organisation, then take their details and end the call. Then call back using a different phone if available. If another phone is not available, then wait 5 minutes and ring a family member or friend to ensure the line has been disconnected and then ring 101.

Never call a number they have supplied and never ring 999 whilst still on the call with them. You must always disconnect the call first before ringing 101. Watch - Courier Fraud Warning: Stay Wise, Don't Compromise.

If you have been a victim of any type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

For further information about Fraud, visit our website at Advice About Fraud | Kent Police.

You will also find valuable information from the Home Office at Stop! Think Fraud - How to stay safe from scams.

Crypto Currency Scams

We have recently received several reports of cryptocurrency/investment scams.

Have you received an unexpected telephone call or message offering a 'can't-miss' investment opportunity?

Do you know how to spot the signs of a fraudulent investment?

Investment scams are becoming increasingly difficult to identify but there are some tell-tale signs that can help protect your hard-earned money:

• Do not be rushed into making an investment.

• Seek independent financial advice first, e.g. from your bank.

• Check if the company is registered with the FCA.

Learn more at ScamSmart - Avoid investment and pension scams | FCA.

If you have been a victim of any type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

For further information about Fraud, visit our website at Advice About Fraud | Kent Police.

You will also find valuable information from the Home Office at Stop! Think Fraud - How to stay safe from scams.

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Impersonation Scams

Beware of criminals posing as the FCA, as there have been up to 5000 reports of this type of scam this year across the UK.

The criminals will look to steal money, personal information and bank account details.

Look out for -

• Fake Crypto recovery offers.

• Loan scam help.

• Fake court emails.

• Romance investment scams.

How to protect yourself -

• Do not trust unexpected calls, texts, or WhatsApp messages.

• NEVER share your PIN or passwords.

• Check with the FCA via their official site if unsure - Financial Services Register | FCA.

If you have been a victim of any type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

For further information about Fraud, visit our website at Advice About Fraud | Kent Police.

You will also find valuable information from the Home Office at Stop! Think Fraud - How to stay safe from scams.

Reporting a live cyber-attack 24/7:

If you are a business, charity or other organisation which is currently suffering a live cyber-attack (in progress) please call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 immediately. This service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Reporting a cyber-attack which is not ongoing:

Please report online to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. You can report cybercrime online at any time using the online reporting tool, which will guide you through simple questions to identify what has happened. Action Fraud advisors can also provide the help, support, and advice you need.

Alternatively, you can call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (textphone 0300 123 2050).