Scam avoidance – latest tips

Email the SAFER team on safer@wyjs.org.uk to sign up to a regular email scam update. Safer is run by West Yorkshire Trading Standards and aims to keep you up to date with the latest cams, helping you to avoid them.

safer@wyjs.org.uk
http://www.facebook.com/SAFERProject
http://www.twitter.com/wytradstandards

Here’s the SAFER December newsletter:

Blue disability badge scam
Don’t get caught out by some online websites that are charging up to £50 to complete a blue badge application, when to apply is free. The badge will only cost £10 if the application is successful. If the Web address doesn’t end in Gov.uk then its not an official government website and is likely to be a scam. ACCESS THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE https://www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge

Netflix Scam
The scam tells customers that their billing details with Netflix has been invalidated and to immediately update their information on their website. They give a web link that is NOT the official Netflix site. Don’t click the email link, if you think that your account details need updating, check on the official Netflix site.

SHOPPING ONLINE?
When making a purchase from an auction website, use insured payment methods such as PayPal and never do a bank transfer to people you don’t know. Also look out for fake goods: they’re illegal and cost livelihoods. If something is an unbelievable bargain and is too good to be true, it’s probably poor quality or doesn’t even exist. Always check payment pages are secure, and remember to log out when you’ve finished shopping online. Look for the padlock in your browser and https.

Buying Tickets Online?
Be aware if you find a website advertised via email or social media offering you the chance to buy tickets to a popular concert/ event. Fraudsters create their own bogus ticket companies to advertise tickets that have either already sold out, or haven’t officially gone on sale yet. When buying concert tickets online, buy only from official sources such as the venue’s box office, the promoter, an official agent or a well-known and reputable ticket exchange site.