Warning to residents about scams over the festive period

Christmas is a busy time of year with plenty of distractions, which can mean that we are not as alert to the dangers of scams as we would normally be

December 14th, 2023

The best advice is not to rush into anything because acting on impulse is what the scammer is relying upon. Trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right and don’t make snap decisions. A scammer wants to create a feeling of urgency that something negative will happen if you don’t do as they say.

SRS is aware of a current scam where residents are cold called over the telephone in relation to their telecare unit. These calls are not made on behalf of Telecare, and we urge residents to be aware to avoid falling victim to these scam calls. 

Don’t buy any goods or services from cold callers. Put up a ‘no cold callers’ notice because, if this is ignored, you will know that the caller is up to no good.

Scam emails and text messages may claim that a delivery is on the way or that there is a delay and will ask you to click on a link or call a number. Stop and think. Take your time to check it out and delete if not genuine.

Be wary of phone calls out of the blue that end up asking you for information. Never disclose your personal or banking details to anyone even if they claim to be calling from your bank.Remember, if it sounds to good to be true then it most probably is!

If you are receiving scam or nuisance calls, contact your telephone provider to see if they can offer you some facilities to stop unwanted calls (SRS Safeguarding Team may be able to provide call blocking units in applicable cases) 

If in doubt – talk it out.  Talk to someone you trust like a friend or neighbour and get a second opinion.  Think twice and ask advice from the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133

If you ever feel threatened or intimidated call the police on 999