20 January 2023

Dear Kent Residents

We have received many reports of scams targeting Kent residents this week. Knowing what scams, doorstep criminals or unsafe goods are on the market can help keep you safe.

Make sure you tell friends, relatives and neighbours. The more informed we become the less vulnerable we are to these criminals. Stay safe!

Kind regards

Victim Safeguarding Officer

We have received two reports of online shopping scams targeting residents in Kent.

One resident spent £2,000 purchasing furniture online, but never received the goods. Another resident paid for a crossbow (age-restricted item) and submitted ID documents as proof of age – they did not receive the item and are now concerned they may be a victim of identity theft.

Watch out for shopping scams❗ Find out how to shop securely from National Cyber Security Centre

Report scams to Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133. With the Cost of Living Crisis many of us are looking for bargains, it can make us vulnerable to scams. Always take the time to think carefully and research the company you are buying from.

Residents in Herne Bay and Whitstable are being targeted by doorstep criminals. They will ask questions about the residents pet and will offer to sell pet food. They may also ask to see the animal.

Always say no to cold callers

Report to Kent Police on 101
If they refuse to leave or are aggressive dial 999

Report cold callers to Kent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

An elderly resident was targeted by a cold caller, who pressure-sold her a monthly subscription to overpriced vitamins. The scammer claimed to be from the resident’s GP surgery and asked for payment card details.

This is a SCAM❗ Do not respond to cold callers. Always think carefully before giving your bank details over the phone.

Report scams and get free scams advice from Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.

Kent residents are being targeted by scammers claiming they can help you receive a reduction in your council tax.

Beware❗ Using third party services means they can charge you or keep a portion of any reduction you receive. Find out how you may be able to reduce your council tax.

Report scams and get free scams advice from Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.

A resident in Kent was targeted by a mobile delivery scam, after a mobile phone package arrived at the door.

The resident did not order a phone, however their name was displayed on the label. Later someone called and said the package is theirs and was delivered to the wrong address.

This is a SCAM❗ A scammer ordered the phone using your name and address, and may have used your bank details. Do not give packages to anyone who calls at your home – contact the seller and your bank to explain what has happened.

Report scams and get free scams advice from Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.

A Kent resident lost £20,000 to an investment scam, after being tempted by a high return. The money was transferred to a fraudster, who was later arrested for fraud charges.

Beware❗ Scams can be very convincing. Criminals can be articulate and financially knowledgeable – using realistic websites, testimonials and materials that are similar to the real thing.

Visit the Financial Conduct Authority to find out how to avoid investment scams.

Report scams to Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.

A resident in Kent was targeted by bogus mobile contract offer, claiming that the upfront fee will be refunded 40 days later. The resident paid the upfront fees and gave all bank account details.

Watch out❗ Be wary of any cold callers. Always think carefully before giving any financial details over the phone.

Report scams and get free scams advice from Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.

Cost of Living Advice & Information

DOORSTEP CRIME AND SCAMS

In this episode, Clive Phillips and Neil Butcher, from Kent Trading Standards, talk about the risks of cold callers and how to steer clear of doorstep criminals and scams.

STOP THE LOAN SHARKS

Cathy Wohlers from Stop Loan Sharks, speaks about the prevalence of loan sharks, what individuals need to look out for and what they can do if they come across these illegal money lenders.

Watch More Newscast Episodes

If you have information on doorstep criminals, counterfeit, fake or illegal goods, illicit tobacco, loan sharks or those selling restricted items to underage kids, call the charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111

Report to Crimestoppers

To report scams and get advice on consumer issues call Citizen’s Advice consumer helpline on
0808 223 1133.

Report to Citizens Advice

SPEAK UP. STAY SAFE

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

You can view our Privacy Notice at any time. It explains what personal data we hold about you, how we collect the data and how we may use and share information about you. We are required to give this information under the data protection law.

Our mailing address is:

Kent County Council

Invicta House

Maidstone, Kent ME14 1XX

United Kingdom

Add us to your address book

KCC Public Protection Update

Cost of Living Advice & Information

DOORSTEP CRIME AND SCAMS

STOP THE LOAN SHARKS

SPEAK UP. STAY SAFE

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