[Information provided by West Mercia Police].

FRAUD UPDATE FROM WEST MERCIA POLICE - ECONOMIC CRIME UNIT

Whilst this may be the season of goodwill, be aware that Fraudsters and Scammers will not share this sentiment and will cash in on further opportunities in the build up to Christmas and the public buying spree online.

SCAM DELIVERY TEXTS AND EMAILS

Whilst these come under various guises claiming to be from genuine delivery and courier firms, be aware of the scam “Post Office” delivery text circulating at the moment.

The Post Office will never send out these sort of texts as they do not deliver parcels and mail but are a physical shop. That is the role of Royal Mail who separated from the Post Office in 2012 but scammers hope you believe they are one and the same.

The current text circulating at the moment states; “Post Office – Your parcel has been re-directed to the local branch due to unpaid shipping fees”

This targets members of the public who may well be expecting parcel deliveries at this time.

It then provides a link to what looks like a genuine website where it ask for payment for redelivery.

Never click on these sort of links or provide any personal details. Remember also that once you have clicked on this type of link, your details are very often added to what is called a “Suckers” list which scammers and criminals sell on via the internet.

Once you details are on such a list, it very difficult or even impossible to get off that list.

SCAM BANK TEXTS

Fraudsters are also using texts to impersonate banks, and in particular there are scam texts circulating at the moment claiming to be from SANTANDER BANK.

It may warn you about suspicious activity on your account and provides a URL link to click on. Never click on these links but report them to your bank immediately.

· Forward Texts to 7726 which is a free of charge service

· Or report directly to Santander at [email protected]

· Emails can also be forwarded to [email protected]

Always be aware and do not let Fraudsters and Scammers ruin your Christmas .

Take Five To Stop Fraud

• Stop: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
• Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
• Protect: If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

For further information visit:

https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/

You can sign up to West Mercia Police alerts on the Neighbourhood Matters website (you can pick and choose what alerts you wish to receive)