As the number of scams increases Kent County Council if compiling a regular round-up of the latest scams which have been reported by Kent residents.
Latest scam alerts reported August 2022
 Fraudsters often target those who are elderly or vulnerable, but we have seen a rise in scams affecting people in all groups. Please stay alert and be aware of the scams below. |
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Kent residents are being targeted by a HMRC Tax Credit scam. Residents are receiving emails claiming to be from HMRC and asking them to provide proof of identity, such as your passport or driving licence. This is a scam  |
 Courier fraud involves a scammer impersonating a police officer or banking official to steal your money and personal information. How do criminals trick residents into courier fraud? The scammers scare victims with threats of arrests or causing problems with getting the money back if they tell anyone or won’t co-operate.  Kent residents targeted by scammers pretending to be Citizens Advice.  You get a call from someone saying they are from Citizens Advice, asking for details and payments to be made. This is a scam With the World Cup starting in three months’ time, Kent residents are being urged to be wary of potential scams. We have seen reports of residents receiving fraudulent letters claiming they have won thousands of pounds associated to a FIFA lottery. The scammers send instructions on how to claim your prize, which involves giving your personal information and the criminals ask for an upfront ‘processing fee’.  We have had reports of users selling items on Facebook Marketplace and the buyer asking for proof of postage via WhatsApp before payment will be made. A demand is then made that the payment won’t be released unless a fee is paid. Be cautious when selling online |
Report scams to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 Get free advice from Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133  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. Visit Trading Standards Checked |