MP Brendan O’Hara visited Santander bank in Helensburgh this week to join the call for constituents to Take Five to Stop Fraud.
Designed to empower people to protect themselves against financial fraud, the campaign tackles phone-based scams, email and text messages as well as online fraud.
It is thought that there were over 1.8 million incidents of financial fraud last year, affecting people across the country including Argyll and Bute.
The Take Five week brought together banks and building societies, local law enforcement, the government and MPs, as well as public and third sector organisations to give advice to the public.
Mr O’Hara said: “Criminals are now very sophisticated, so it is more important than ever that people are aware of the advice from Take Five on how to protect themselves from becoming a victim.
“Fraudsters will do all they can to appear like the real deal, so always be on your guard for any calls, texts or emails out the blue asking for your details. During the Take Five week we want to get the message across that is vital to stop and think before you give away any information.”
The Take Five campaign urges customer to help stay safe by following simple advice:
- Never disclose security details, such as your PIN or passwords.
- Don’t assume an email, call or text is genuine.
- Don’t be rushed – a genuine bank or organisation won’t mind waiting.
- Listen to your instincts – you know if something doesn’t feel right.
- Stay in control – don’t panic and make a decision you will regret.
More advice can be found at www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk
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