Dear Kent Residents We have received many reports of scams targeting Kent residents this week. Knowing what scams, doorstep criminals or unsafe goods are on the market can help keep you safe. Make sure you tell friends, relatives and neighbours. The more informed we become the less vulnerable we are to these criminals. Stay safe!Kind regards
Victim Safeguarding Officer
Residents have had a number of telephone calls from someone claiming they can help with debt. Never respond to cold callers or unsolicited messages about help with your finances. This will either be a scam or you will have to pay for any help offered or someone stealing your personal and financial information. The Cost of Living has made us all anxious about money, but do not be tempted to respond to cold callers. Visit the Citizens Advice website https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money Or get advice from Money Helper (formerly The Money Advice Service) is a free service set up by the Government to help people make the most of their money https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/money-troubles/dealing-with-debt
Watch the Kent County Council’s Stop the Loan Sharks Newscast on YouTube for more advice
A Resident received a phone call from someone who claimed to be from Microsoft. The scammer said that the residents computer seemed to be used by hackers. The resident gave them their credit card details and access to their computer where the scammer then proceeded to order items for themselves.These scammers will use scare tactics to trick you into giving them access to your computer, where they can steal your personal and financial information or ask you for payments to fix a non-existent problem.Whilst some will be aware of this scam, not everyone is. Make sure you warn your friends and neighbours. The cost of living will make us all more susceptible to scams.For advice and to report contact Citizens Advice consumer helpline 0808 223 1133
Residents had a phone call saying the company wanted to inspect their loft to check for damp. This is a scam. Never respond to cold callers. Similar scams also target residents by saying that dangerous mould could also be found in their loft posing a risk to their health or that the new insulation the company have can save thousands on their heating bill.For advice and to report Citizens Advice 0808 223 1133.With the Cost of Living we are all looking to save money – don’t let a fraudster cheat you. Watch the Kent County Council’s Doorstep Criminal and Scams Newscast YouTube
Do You Know Your Rights As A Tenant?
Peter Habert from The Property Ombudsman Service joins Tammy Carroll from Kent Trading Standards to explain the information landlords and letting agents should be providing and what to do if you come across a problem.
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 crimestoppers-uk.org
To report scams and get advice on consumer issues call Citizen’s Advice consumer helpline on0808 223 1133 citizensadvice.org.uk
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.