|
We know you flagged that fraud is a concern for you, so this is a quick update to tell you how we’re addressing concerns and supporting residents. SCAM ALERT: Fraudsters Posing as Parking Wardens
Please share this warning with family, friends, neighbours, and anyone who may be vulnerable to fraud. Reports have highlighted a card-theft scam operating near parking ticket machines, where fraudsters wear high-visibility clothing or fake uniforms to impersonate Civil Enforcement Officers (parking wardens). How the Scam Works • Fraudsters approach drivers at parking ticket machines, claiming the machine is faulty or that a parking violation has occurred. • They offer to "help" you pay for parking or settle a supposed fine using a handheld device or a compromised machine. • While distracting you, they observe and record your PIN number, then steal or swap your bank card. • The stolen card is often used immediately to withdraw cash from nearby ATMs. Protect Yourself Genuine police officers and council parking wardens will never ask for your bank card or PIN. Never hand your bank card to anyone claiming to assist with parking payments. Shield the keypad when entering your PIN. If you feel pressured, rushed, or something doesn't seem right, Stop, Think, and Check. Ask to see official identification if someone claims to be an enforcement officer. If in doubt, walk away and contact the relevant authority directly. If You Are Targeted 🔹 In an emergency or if you feel threatened, call 999 immediately. 🔹 If you believe your bank card or financial details have been compromised, contact your bank straight away to freeze your account and report the incident. 🔹 Report suspicious activity to the police via 101 or through Action Fraud. ⚠️ Stay vigilant. A genuine parking warden will never ask for your bank card or PIN. Sharing this warning could help prevent someone from becoming a victim of fraud.
 We consider fraud to be a serious crime and will put the time in to tackle it however we can. In the meantime, there are ways to keep yourself safe. Fraud comes in many forms and across various different channels, whether that's through emails, phone calls or in person encounters. Please see a few resources below to protect you and others from potential fraudsters: For more information and help and to report fraud, go to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre. Lastly, if you think you’ve uncovered a scam, been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, please contact 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at Action Fraud. |