News

KCC Scams Update

Dear Kent Residents

This week we had received reports that residents across the county are being targeted by telephone calls offering to rectify previous loft insulation work or spray foam insulation. This is a scam. Never agree to work from cold callers.

If you think there may be a problem with your roof or insulation, use a safe trader visit https://tschecked.kent.gov.uk/

Please continue to warn friends and family.

For the latest scams alerts as we receive them please add us on Instagram or Facebook.

Kind regards

Victim Safeguarding Officer

A new campaign from Friends Against Scams called #NoBlameNoShame to highlight the conversation around scams. With 73% of UK adults having been targeted by scams we need to change the way we talk about them. Scams are a crime and the scammers are criminals.

We need to change the language we use and consider the coercive and controlling nature of the criminals. We need to understand the financial and emotional impact of these abuses and crimes and encourage people to share and report. Let’s place the blame on the criminals.

Recognise the impact and not blame or shame.

Read more on the Friends Against Scams website

Watch the ‘Coercive Control in Fraud Scams and Financial Abuse video

Become A Friend Against Scams
If you would like to be a Friend Against Scams you can attend a short awareness session in person or complete the online training.

BBC News recently visited Kent Scientific Services to speak with Mark Rolfe, who explained the process of verifying vegan food and how in their testing of products, 23 failed for animal-related allergens.

As the demand for vegan food grows, it’s essential to guarantee that these products are genuinely vegan and free from any potential allergens. The best way is to check the label and make sure it is free from allergens. Please share this video to warn and inform others.

Watch the full video here

More reports of residents receiving scam messages on WhatsApp from recruiters.

When applying for jobs always check who you are sending your personal information to and that it is a legitimate recruiter.

For advice and to report contact Citizens Advice on consumer helpline 0808 223 1133 or report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

We have had more reports of Kent residents targeted with investment scams and are now being pressured to hand over more money

How to protect yourself from Financial Investment fraud:

❎ Investment opportunities: Don’t be rushed into making an investment.
❎ Remember, legitimate organisations will never pressure you into investing on the spot.
❎ Seek advice first: Before making significant financial decisions, speak with trusted friends or family members, or seek professional independent advice.
❎ FCA register: Use the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) register to check if the company is regulated by the FCA. If you deal with a firm (or individual) that isn’t regulated, you may not be covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) if things go wrong and you lose your money.

If you think that you may have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040

People across the county are being targeted by telephone calls offering to rectify previous loft insulation work or spray foam insulation. They imply they have been tasked to check whether homes are complaint with new insulation laws and to check for fire risk dangers.
They use high pressure sales tactics, even saying they have flown a drone over your home and there is damage to the roof structure.

Never agree to work from cold callers. Warn friends and family.

If you think there may be a problem with your roof or insulation, use a safe trader visit Trading Standards Checked

We have received reports of a significant increase in motor vehicle theft in the UK and Kent.

To reduce criminals targeting your belongings The Neighbourhood Watch Network have provided guidance here: https://loom.ly/0NaqXTw

Are you buying fireworks this year? Avoid unknown sellers on social media and only buy from licensed retailers.

Despite safety warnings, injuries occur every year. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display.

If you do buy fireworks:

Always check for the CE mark.

It is illegal for under 18’s to buy or carry fireworks.

Let your neighbours and those with pets or horses know in advance and stop at the appropriate time.

Read safety warnings on the box, and if you’re unsure, don’t use them.

Please help to keep us all safe this season by sharing this video.

For more information visit Kent Fire and Rescue Service

Report scams and get advice from Citizens Advice consumer helpline 
If you have information on doorstep criminals, counterfeit, fake or illegal goods, illicit tobacco, loan sharks or those selling restricted items to underage kids, call the charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 
To report scams and get advice on consumer issues call Citizen’s Advice consumer helpline on
0808 223 1133.

SPEAK UP. STAY SAFE

Trading Standards Checked carries out checks on traders so customers can have peace of mind when choosing a tradesperson to do work in their home.

Please help to keep your family and community safe. If you need work done in your home or garden, visit the website to find a safe local tradesperson.

Please share with your community

 

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You can view our Privacy Notice at any time. It explains what personal data we hold about you, how we collect the data and how we may use and share information about you. We are required to give this information under the data protection law.