Latest from the Fraud Office

Published: 23 January 2024

Latest from the Kent Fraud Alert System...

 Fake Emails impersonating Temu

The emails state that you can win free products by simply clicking on a link and completing a quick survey. The link will take you to a realistic looking website that is under the control of the criminals, where they will steal your personal data. These FAKE Temu emails have been reported over 30,000 times to Action Fraud from across the UK. Always report suspicious emails by forwarding them to: report@phishing.gov.uk If you think that you may have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

Latest Q code scam

Thames Water have advised that they have been made aware of a fake letter sent to some customers, containing a QR code which directs them to a fraudulent website offering help with paying their bills. The website then goes on to ask for personal information such as date of birth, address and passport number. It is a SCAM. Thames Water have outlined that they would never ask customers for their personal or financial details, access to their online account or for any urgent action or a rushed decision. They "take the security of (their) customers information very seriously and do everything to make sure their data is well protected.” Although Thames Water only cover part of Kent, it is worthwhile taking a note of this scam, as criminals are likely to use this method to target other water companies and organisations with similar fake letters. If you think that you may have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

WhatsApp Crypto Currency Scam 

A Kent resident reported to KCC about being scammed with a WhatsApp crypto trading scam. The criminals use WhatsApp to invite you to a group where a fake ‘analyst’ will talk about the advantages of investing in cryptocurrency. However, it is all a scam and is designed to steal your money. Always seek independent financial advice, EG your Bank. Go to Action Fraud for further information/advice at - Investment fraud | Action Fraud If you think that you may have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, then contact your Bank immediately, which you can do by calling 159 and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

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