Stay Safe: A Caremark Greenwich Guide to Avoiding Scams

We at Caremark Greenwich, feel it is important for our customers and their families to feel safe and secure as we navigate today’s digital age.

It is important to stay informed of potential scams, so with this in mind we, your Home Care in Greenwich have collated this guide to help you protect you and your loved ones.

Here are some essential tips and precautions to help you recognise and avoid scams.

Common Scams

Scammers use various tactics to deceive people, including:

Phishing Emails: These emails appear to be from legitimate companies and ask for personal information or prompt you to click on malicious links.
Fake Phone Calls: Scammers impersonate trusted organisations to get your sensitive information or money.
Fraudulent Websites: These sites mimic real ones to steal your personal and financial information.

Simple Tips to Stay Safe

Confirm Communications: Always confirm the legitimacy of unexpected messages or calls. For suspicious calls, disconnect and verify using a trusted number from an official source. For emails, scrutinize the sender’s address and avoid interacting with unverified links.
Safeguard Personal Data: Never share sensitive personal or financial details in response to unsolicited requests. Legitimate organizations will not request this information via email or phone.
Apply Strong Passwords: Strengthen your online accounts with unique, strong passwords. Consider using a password manager to securely store them.
Activate Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
Question Unusual Payment Requests :Avoid payments through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers—methods often used by scammers. Legitimate businesses do not request these payment types.
Report Suspicious Incidents: Notify appropriate authorities if you suspect fraudulent activity to safeguard yourself and others.

Guidance from Trusted Sources

Banks: Banks emphasise the importance of being cautious with unsolicited communications. If you suspect a scam, contact your bank immediately to report it and secure your accounts
BT: BT advises verifying the caller and using protective services like Call Protect to block unwanted calls
Amazon: Amazon recommends checking for red flags in emails and verifying orders through your account on their website
HMRC: HMRC warns against clicking on links in unexpected emails or texts and advises reporting suspicious activity directly to them
Police: The police suggest being sceptical of unsolicited communications and verifying sources through official websites.

Conclusion

Remaining informed and vigilant is the most effective defense against scams. Verify sources when in doubt, and always err on the side of caution. Share these insights to help others stay protected.

Stay safe and spread the word to help others stay protected too!