Dear Kent Residents
Scammers are targeting small businesses and stallholders by impersonating event organisers on social media.
They advertise fake fairs, markets or wedding events and send convincing application forms. Victims are told their stall has been approved and asked to pay upfront fees. Once payment is made, the booking is fake and the money is lost.
These are scams. Genuine organisers will not rely on social media comments alone or pressure you into paying upfront without proper verification.
If this happens to you, call your bank immediately using 159 or report to Kent Police.
⚠️ Fake insurance brokers are on social media and messaging apps offering very cheap car insurance deals.
These policies are often fake, invalid, or cancelled soon after purchase—leaving you unknowingly uninsured.
How to protect yourself:
✅Only buy insurance from trusted providers or official comparison sites
🚨Be wary of deals offered via social media or direct messages
✅Check the company is authorised on the FCA register
❌Never share personal or payment details with unknown individuals
Stay alert and protect yourself and your family from scams.
➡️ Report to:
Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline
Kent Police
⚠️ Residents have received letters claiming they have won money in an “International FIFA World Cup Online Lottery”.
🚩 This is a scam
Fraudsters often use well-known names like FIFA or major international events to make letters appear legitimate. These scams typically claim you’ve won a lottery you never entered, pressure you to act quickly, and ask you to contact someone or keep the information confidential.
How to protect yourself:
❌Don’t respond to the letter or contact the sender
❌Don’t share personal or financial information
❌Never pay fees to claim a prize
🚨Remember: genuine lotteries don’t contact people like this
If you’re unsure, speak to someone you trust before taking action.
➡️ Report to:
Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline
Kent Police