Stay Safe Online

Don't transfer money

Always pay for items you buy online by card on a secure payment page or by cash in person.  However desperate you are to secure an item, never transfer money into the seller's account, as you may never see the goods or your money again.

Check payment pages are secure

Before you enter your card details on a payment page, make sure it is secure by checking that the address starts with https (the ‘s’ stands for secure') and there is a padlock or unbroken key symbol in the browser window.

Use a credit card

Remember that you have more chance of getting your money back in the event of problems if you pay by credit card rather than debit card.  Some sellers may charge a premium, but it could well be worth the extra for your peace of mind.

Use auction sites safely

Many of us buy from online auction sites.  Always use trusted and well-known payment methods instead of paying sellers directly.  Read the site and seller's conditions.  And for your personal safety if you're collecting in person, take someone with you or let people know where you're going.

Check out bargains with care

If you find or are emailed about an item that seems just too much of a bargain, it could be a scam, fake goods or it doesn't match the description.  Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Use social networks safely

Social networks are a popular medium for scams - and are becoming increasingly so. If you see a post promising something free of charge, free entry to a competition with a fantastic prize or perhaps an offer that seems just too good to be true consider very carefully before following it up.

Use email safely

An email urging you to click on a link to reveal a special offer, to open an attachment containing some great news, or to “confirm details” or “reset your account”, could well be a scam, even if it appears to come from a reputable source. If in doubt, delete the mail and don't respond to or forward it.

Look after that new smartphone or tablet

If you're buying or get bought a new smartphone or tablet, protect it by downloading a reputable internet security app and make sure it's safeguarded with a PIN.  Install parental control software on kids' mobile devices and chat to them about how to use the internet safely.

Remember to log out

When you've finished your online shopping or banking session, always log out of the website or app…it only takes a second.  Sometimes, just closing the window doesn't mean you've logged out, and someone else could gain access to your account and personal details.  Don't  forget to check and save purchase confirmation emails.

Make sure wi-fi is secure

At home or other premises you know, make sure the wi-fi is secured before doing anything confidential online.  When you're out and about, you can't guarantee it's secured even if you have to enter a code.  When you're shopping, banking or making online payments, it's better to connect with 3G/4G/5G, even if it's slower.

For the latest crime prevention advice visit:

www.westmercia.police.uk/cp/crimeprevention/

For crimes in progress call 999.

For non emergencies report online:

www.westmercia.police.uk/report.