Senior citizens across Mid and East Antrim offered help to spot and avoid scams
Andrew, Ballymena Rural Warden; a resident of Cullybackey Fold and Paul, PSNI Crime Prevention Officer educate senior citizens on scams.
Senior citizens across Mid and East Antrim are being given practical advice to help them recognise scams and protect themselves from fraud.
Community Safety Wardens are distributing copies of The Little Book of Big Scams, which explains some of the most common types of fraud, the warning signs people should watch for and steps they can take to stay safer.
The initiative is particularly aimed at raising awareness among older and potentially vulnerable residents, although authorities stress that anyone can fall victim to increasingly convincing scams.
How scammers target their victims
The Little Book of Big Scams was produced by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), in partnership with ScamwiseNI, and covers fraud ranging from courier and investment scams to romance scams, fraudulent correspondence and rogue traders.
It explains the different ways scammers may make contact, the tactics they use to gain trust or pressure victims, key warning signs and where people can turn for advice and support.
Councillor Tyler Hoey, Chair of Mid and East Antrim Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), said:
“The Little Book of Big Scams is an excellent resource to help vulnerable residents identify potential scams and protect themselves from fraud. Our Community Safety Wardens work tirelessly to support senior citizens and raise awareness of the many tactics used by scammers to steal money. By distributing this booklet, they are helping local people stay informed and potentially save hundreds of pounds.”
Supporting vulnerable residents
Housing Executive Assistant Area Housing Manager for Mid and East Antrim, Roy McClean, said the wardens also provide a reassuring presence within local communities.
He added:
“The Community Safety Wardens provide invaluable support and advice to vulnerable residents. They complement the work of Housing Executive staff by providing a reassuring presence and make a positive contribution to community safety. We are delighted that this will create greater awareness amongst senior citizens about the who unfortunately do get targeted by scammers.”
Residents who are concerned about scams, or want advice on protecting themselves from fraud, can access an online copy of The Little Book of Big Scams through the PSNI website.
How to report fraud or raise a concern
Crimes can be reported directly to the PSNI by calling 101 or online at www.psni.police.uk/report/incident. In an emergency, always call 999.
Residents, businesses and community organisations across Mid and East Antrim can also contact the Community Safety Wardens to raise a concern, request a patrol in their area or arrange to meet the team.
The PCSP Team can be contacted by email at pcsp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or by telephone on 0300 124 5000. Further information is also available through its Facebook page at facebook.com/midandeastantrimpcsp.
With scammers continually changing how they approach potential victims, residents are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with the warning signs and to seek advice if something does not feel right before handing over money or personal information.
