At challenging times like this, we see the community spirit of South
Yorkshire people demonstrated in many ways. We know that groups are
setting up all over the county to offer support to people who are
isolating. Whilst in the vast majority of these cases, the individuals
will be well intentioned, there may be some who see this as an
opportunity for their own criminal gain.
People carrying out shopping on behalf of you, or a loved one, will at
some point need to be paid. If you give them cash, how do you know they
will come back with the goods? If you give them your bank cards, they
have access to all of your funds.
Action Fraud and Age UK worked together to create this film on doorstep
fraud which we think will help set out our concerns and offers you some
helpful steps on ways in which you can protect yourself.
They suggest this easy way of remembering how best to protect yourself
and your loved ones if someone comes to your door offering help.
Stop – never do anything you don’t want to or make any decisions on the
spot
Check – Check for ID but remember most of these are community volunteers
so wouldn’t necessarily have ID. There is no way of knowing whether they
are legitimate
Ask – Ask someone you trust for a second opinion, or ask them if they
can provide the support you need.
Mine – If they ask for your card or your pin, remember this is very
personal information which should not be shared
Share – If you come across a scam, share your experience with others if
possible to prevent them from being scammed.
Doorstep fraud is a crime. It happens to a wide range of people with all
sorts of backgrounds. Please report it if it happens to you.
People are also encourage to share this information with your loved
ones.