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"Each month we see many incidents of fraudsters targeting our residents to defraud them. We’re working hard to prevent this and support vulnerable victims of fraud or scams. By following our tips and encouraging family, friends and colleagues to do so too, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim."
T/Detective Chief Inspector Simon Doyle, Surrey Police & Sussex Police Economic Crime Unit
Software Service Scams
Sussex and Surrey received 214 reports of Software Service fraud in the last year relating to vulnerable victims.
Computer software service fraud occurs when fraudsters posing as legitimate companies, such as your broadband provider, Microsoft etc contact you by telephone, email or pop messages to tell you that there’s a problem with your computer or router which needs fixing. They might say that they can fix the problem for a fee, or alternatively they can compensate you for the problem you are experiencing.
In one case a 76-year-old Male from East Sussex reported having issues with his computer whilst shopping online. The victim’s computer was freezing when a pop-up message appeared on the screen suggesting the victim ring a telephone number for tech support. The victim called the number provided and was asked to provide remote access to his computer so that they could fix the problem. The victim followed the callers’ instructions which led to the fraudster gaining full control of the victim’s computer. The fraudster was then able to access the victim’s online banking account where they transferred £590 to another bank account.
How to protect yourself:
How to keep your devices safe
Over the Christmas period many of us may have been gifted, upgraded, or brought in the sale a new device such as a mobile phone, laptop, or tablet. It is important that all your devices are fully protected and used safely to protect you from fraudsters who may try to hack your devices or manipulate you into giving them access to your devices so that they can steal your personal data and even access your finances.
reminders to update all your devices as they contain important fixes which will help keep hackers out. You can make things simpler by activating automatic updates
Amazon Scams
Sussex and Surrey Police have seen multiple reports of fraud in relation to various Amazon scams being conducted by fraudsters.
Fraudsters may contact you claiming to be from Amazon asking for you to pay a subscription fee, claiming there is a problem with your Amazon account or asking you to act urgently due to an unauthorised purchase on your account.
In one case a 77-year-old Male from Banstead reported receiving a telephone call from someone claiming to be from Amazon. The caller explained that the victim was owed a £95 refund for an Amazon Prime subscription overpayment and that they would process a refund immediately. The caller then explained that they had accidently refunded £9500 instead of £95 and asked the victim to transfer the £9500 back to a given bank account. The victim did this believing a genuine mistake had been made but later realised he had been scammed as no refund had been made.
How to protect yourself:
Locksmith scams
Sussex Police have seen a number of recent reports in relation to bogus locksmiths targeting victims.
Please be aware of bogus locksmiths and only use companies you have used before or companies someone you know, and trust has recommended to you.
You can also use the Master Locksmiths Association website to find a trusted locksmith : www.locksmiths.co.uk
Suspect you or someone you know has been victim to a scam?
Report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
However, where the victim is vulnerable or elderly, please contact Sussex or Surrey Police directly on 101.
If it’s an emergency, always call 999.