Protect yourself from scammers
We’re prompting residents and businesses to remain vigilant of scams and remind everyone of what to do if you have been contacted by a scammer.
Be vigilant
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated in their tactics. It is important for everyone to remain vigilant. Scams can take many forms, including:
- Phone scams: Callers may claim to be calling from government agencies, banks, energy providers or another reputable company. They often use high-pressure tactics to gather personal information or payments. If you receive an unsolicited call asking for sensitive information, hang up. You can contact the company/organisation through their official channels to check if the call is sincere
- Email or text scams: Phishing emails or text messages often look genuine. They appear to come from trusted sources and are designed to trick recipients into clicking on links or providing personal information. Beware of clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown senders
- In-person scams: Scammers may approach individuals in public places or even at their homes, claiming to be collecting for a charity, service provider, or even neighbours in need. Always ask for identification – legitimate callers will carry ID and be happy to wait for you to confirm with their organisation (via official channels), they are who they say they are
Protect yourself
- Go with your gut: If something feels off, it probably is. You can hang up, delete, or walk away from a suspicious situation
- Never share personal information: Be cautious about sharing personal or financial information. Legitimate organisations will never ask for sensitive information through unsolicited communications
- Verify: If you receive a suspicious call, email, or visit, take the time to verify the information. Use official websites or numbers to confirm the authenticity of the request
- Report it: Report the suspicious message to Action Fraud – call 0300 123 2040 or use the online fraud reporting tool
Report a scam and help others
Anyone can fall victim to a scam – it is nothing to be ashamed of.
Criminals are becoming increasingly clever in their attempts to take advantage of people, and many scams look genuine on first impression.
If you have fallen victim to a scam, please report it to Action Fraud. I also ask anyone to contact us and get help if the scam relates to the council. Reporting a scam can help stop scammers and prevent other people from becoming victims.
Councillor Holly Whitbread, EFDC Finance Portfolio Holder
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