Fraudsters are continuing to target people across Norfolk through a variety of schemes, with recent warnings highlighting bank fraud, student loan scams and nuisance cold callers.
While the methods may differ, scammers have been attempting to trick victims into handing over money or personal information.
To help people stay one step ahead, we've rounded up the latest scam alerts issued this week, including the warning signs to look out for and the tactics criminals are using to catch people off guard.
1. Visa telephone cold calls
People have been warned about automated calls claiming to come from a Visa debit security department.
One reported call said a £900 online shopping payment had been requested and instructed the recipient to press one to report fraud.
The call is designed to cause panic and may connect people to someone attempting to obtain personal and financial information.
The advice is to hang up and contact your bank using the number on your card, a recent statement or the bank’s genuine website or app.
2. Student Loans Company scams
Students have been warned about messages claiming their maintenance loan payment is at risk.
The Student Loans Company (SLC) said scammers may use texts, emails or phone calls to claim that payments have been blocked, bank details need updating or an account will be closed.
SLC said it will not request personal or financial information by email or text, or send messages imposing urgent deadlines.
Students should avoid links, check their online account and never share information such as their date of birth, customer reference number or bank details.
3. Tree care flyers
People in Caister-on-Sea have been warned about hand-delivered flyers offering work on trees, hedges and shrubs.
The flyers provide a contact number but no further business details.
Homeowners should only use reputable companies they have researched themselves and should obtain a written quotation before agreeing to work.
4. Fake PayPal emails
People have also been warned about emails claiming a PayPal account will be closed in 90 days.
The messages imitate PayPal branding and direct recipients to create a new account through a link.
Anyone following the link may be taken to a malicious website designed to collect personal, financial and account details.
5. Investment scams
Investment scams may begin with emails, telephone calls, social media posts or online adverts.
Fraudsters can promote fake opportunities involving savings bonds, shares, precious metals, cryptocurrencies, gemstones and fine wines.
Some adverts falsely use the images of celebrities, politicians or media experts to make opportunities appear genuine.
People should be wary of guaranteed or risk-free returns, avoid pressure to decide quickly and seek independent financial advice.
6. Employment scams
Scam job adverts and messages are being shared through social media, text messages, WhatsApp and automated calls.
Fraudsters may claim to represent well-known online businesses or recruitment agencies and request personal information, CVs or completed questionnaires.
People should be cautious if asked for a full date of birth, address, passport number, driving licence number, National Insurance number or bank details.
Some scams also request upfront payments for administration, background checks or travel.
7. Garden work cold callers
Scratby locals have been warned about a man reportedly offering garden work at the doorstep.
He may also be distributing flyers containing a contact number but no further business details.
Homeowners are advised not to deal with doorstep cold callers or agree to property work after being approached in this way.
Share