West Sussex council shares new scams that everybody should be aware of #nigeria | #nigeriascams | #lovescams


The council warns that scams have become “more frequent and sophisticated” since the beginning of the cost-of-living crisis

West Sussex council have shared a list of new scams that are becoming more “frequent and sophisticated” since the beginning of the cost-of-living crisis.

The council has revealed that their most reported scams include “romance fraud”, “sextortion,” and “investment fraud”. Criminals behind these use tactics such as pretending to be in a relationship with their victim, threatening to spread their sexual photos, and even convincing them to invest in non-existent products. 

Warnings have also been given against scam texts, including those masquerading as the government or the DWP to get people to share their personal details in exchange for a non-existent cost-of-living payment. Other things to look out for include “bogus emails, texts or calls claiming to be from the local council requesting bank or card details” for tax rebates and energy supplier deals and discounts.

Adverts, texts and social media posts are also worth being wary of if they offer loans to “help you through a period of financial hardship”. As we approach Christmas, the council also highlights traditional scams which offer great deals on “tickets, holidays, vehicles, consumer goods, fashion” and other online purchases. 

Cabinet member Duncan Crow described how scams have “sadly become more common”, whether “they’re online, by telephone or in person.”

He continued, “Unless we stay alert and up to date, fraudsters will continue to prey on the understandable worry and panic that these types of messages can cause.

“To help residents deal with these cyber scams, we have a number of free support options that will educate people on the latest scams and help them understand how we can all prevent ourselves and loved ones from becoming victims of this type of crime.”

The support Crow refers to includes a “Staying Safe Online e-newsletter” and webinars run by their Digital Safety Team. You can take a look at their upcoming events here.

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