September issue - Magazine - Page 51
Glenside
News
GlensideNews@mail.com
COMMUNITY
WITHAM ON THE HILL WI REPORT
Sharon Hall, our September speaker, explained that she is in the East Midlands Special Operations Unit dealing with
Fraud Prevention. Their slogan is Recognise, Reject, Report.
She said the first recorded fraud was in 300 BC when a ship was sunk to claim the insurance. Nowadays, in the UK,
40% of all reported crime is fraud and £7 billion is lost to domestic fraud.
Sharon explained there are different types of fraud: postal, telephone, doorstep and online. She advised various
precautions to protect yourself from fraud. Don't recognise a telephone number? Don't pick up. They will ring back if
they are known to you or they will leave a message. Shred shopping receipts that may contain your loyalty card number
and your prescription bags that may have your date of birth and NHS number, all of which can be used for identity
fraud.
Doorstep callers can result in distraction burglary, so do not let anyone in you are not expecting. Beware of bogus
driveway tarmac layers, jet washers, roofers, etc. Pedlars selling dusters and cloths play on your emotions, so check
their pedlar's certificate carefully, most are not genuine. Report such callers to Police on 101 so they can be checked.
Sharon showed a video clip with comedian Michael McIntyre making fun of online password security. Do not click
on links that you are not expecting. When doing online shopping look for the padlock logo and check out as a guest.
Romance fraud was mentioned – often victims are too embarrassed to admit it. Report spam calls by dialling 7726
on your mobile phone. If money is stolen report it to your bank first, then to the police.
Sharon finished by reminding us, “If you are not expecting it, question it”. She then answered questions from
members and gave out Essential Guide to Fraud booklets.
The next meeting will be on
Tuesday 7 October at 2.30pm
in St Andrew’s Parish Hall, Witham on the Hill
The October speaker will be talking about the Lincs Notts Air Ambulance.
Visitors and new members are always welcome - entry fee is £5.
For information contact Jane Clark on 01778 590232.
