Kent Public Protection
Scam Alerts: DVLA, Household Support Fund and Romance Scams
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
Kent resident targeted by scam websiteWanting to change the address on their diving licence they searched online Using a website they thought was DVLA, they completed the form, made the payment and posted their old driving licence.
When they did not receive the new updated licence they called DVLA who had no trace They realised they had used a scam website, lost their money and their driving licence, leaving them to be targeted by identity theft.
To renew or amend your driving licence visit gov.uk
It’s free to update your address, unless you want to also submit a new photograph. You can change your address by post or online.Be aware that if you fail to notify the DVLA when your address changes, you could face fines of up to £1,000.
Report or for advice call Citizens Advice consumer helpline 0808 223 1133.
The Household Support Fund helps vulnerable Kent households with rising living costs.
We are aware that scams are targeting residents.The Household Support Fund does NOT ask for your bank details.They will NEVER ask for financial information nor any payment.
This scheme will NEVER cold callThe support given is a Post Office cash-out voucher
The Cost of Living Crisis has made us all vulnerable to scams, be wary, think twice, never give out financial information to cold callers.
Check eligibility for the Support Fund and apply here: Household Support Fund – Kent County Council
Report and Advice contact Citizens Advice consumer helpline 0808 223 1133 https://www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/cost-of-living-support/urgent-financial-help-and-extra-support
How To Avoid Romance Scams from Kent Police
Romance scams are on the rise. Sophie Day joins Kent County Council from Kent Police to talk about how to avoid fraudsters using romance scams to target people in Kent during the cost of living crisis in 2023. Romance scams in the UK are becoming more prevalent due to technology. In this newscast we expose the key traits of a scammer and how to avoid falling victim on online dating apps.
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 on0808 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.