Stay aware of scams this Winter

INFORMATION stalls are being held in Tameside to raise awareness and provide advice on scams, ahead of a busy shopping period.

Tameside Council’s Community Safety Team, Greater Manchester Police Fraud Team and Trading Standards are collaborating to host stalls in Clarendon Square Shopping Mall, Hyde on 12 November (10am-12:30pm), and Ashton Indoor Market Hall on 19 November (10am-12:30pm).

The teams will be there to speak with residents about current scams, how to recognise them, and where to report them.

Cases of fraud tend to rise during the Christmas period, as people often seek discounts and online shopping activity increases.

Residents will be provided with advice such as being wary of links before opening them, assessing the sender of emails and texts offering discounts and sales, turning on two-factor authentication and other tips.

Do not give any personal information (name, address, bank details, email or phone number) to organisations or people before verifying their credentials.

Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity, Cllr Stephen Homer, said: “These information stalls offer a valuable opportunity for our teams to increase awareness and knowledge about both current and common scams. We encourage all residents to take advantage of the support available, so no one falls victim to fraud.”

Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, where individuals can report scams, defrauding incidents, and online crimes.

You can report a scam by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk, or by textphone at 0300 123 2050.