Avoid being scammed

1. Never disclose security details, such as your PIN or full banking password
2. Don't assume an email, text or phone call is genuine
3. Don't be rushed - a genuine organisation won't mind waiting
4. Listen to your instincts - you know if something doesn't feel right
5. Stay in control - don't panic and make a decision you'll regret

• If in any doubt, say "NO", end a conversation and put the phone down, or tell someone to leave your property
• If you're not sure, don't open the door - don't engage with traders at your door, especially if you don't know who it is or are unsure about their legitimacy
• Talk to someone you trust and get a second opinion if you have any doubts about a phone call, email, letter or visit at the door

• As the old saying goes - if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!
• Be wary of anyone asking for money who wouldn't normally, or if the request is out of the blue
• You can only win a lottery or prize draw if you've entered in the first instance
• Legitimate companies will never ask you for money to make a purchase or claim a prize

Purchase a call blocker

Anyone can buy a call blocker online. While they vary in functionality and price, we have found the cheaper units to be adequate for most people’s needs. There are some companies charging extortionate prices, so make sure you check a few sites to ensure you are not taken advantage of.

Funding for 460 call blockers, a mixture of standard and dementia friendly units, has been secured so vulnerable residents experiencing nuisance calls can have them installed within their homes. Eligible residents are loaned the units free of charge for as long as required to combat nuisance calls. In order for the call blockers to work, caller ID/caller display must be on the line, which, in most cases, is provided free of charge by your telephone provider.

Call blocking services

Did you know that many telephone providers provide call blocking services, many at no additional cost? It may be worth making contact with them on a trusted number to identify what support they can provide.

We advise you never to sign up to call blocking service providers who have made contact with you. Some callers may claim to be a well-known provider which may happen to be yours, but this is a common scam.

Call blocking phones

Another option for people wishing to stop nuisance calls is to buy a call blocking phone. Residents claim they are very effective and there are many brands available to choose from.

Another way to reduce unwanted phone calls is by signing up to the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) – it is free and takes only a few minutes.

Top Tip - along with your landline, you can also register your mobile phone.

Fraudsters are currently using letters and social media to advertise ways for getting rich quick. View the 'Get rich quick and refund scams' flyer below for more information.

If you, a family member or a friend think you may have been a victim of a scam you can report this to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service. They will provide you with practical, and impartial advice, as well as help to stop others being scammed.

We work in partnership with the Citizens Advice Consumer Service (CACS).

Please visit CACS for details on how to report a potential scam or call 0808 231133.

CACS will:

• record details of your complaint
• provide relevant advice on your consumer rights
• forward the complaint details to the relevant Trading Standards department of police for further investigation

Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm only.

• You can call during office hours and ask to speak to a Scams Unit Officer on 01384 818871