Christmas should be a happy time – but it’s also a time when scammers may try to take advantage. Anyone can fall for a scam – but scammers will often target people who are older, who live alone or who look like they could be vulnerable.
That means people with dementia may be more at risk. So we’ve put together some simple advice to help you stay safe while still enjoying the festive season to the full.
For many of us, online shopping is a Christmas lifesaver. No queues, no crowds, and no carrying heavy bags home from the shops. But fake websites and misleading ads are also common online, and scammers will also send fake emails that look exactly like the real thing.
You might get an email that says a parcel is on its way, or offering you a special Christmas deal. The golden rule is never to click on a link in an unexpected email. If you get a message that doesn’t look quite right, ask someone you trust to check it for you. Want to know how to spot a fake website or email? The National Cyber Security Centre has some great tips here.
You can also protect yourself by sticking to well-known shopping websites. Save the ones you use most often as bookmarks on your computer, tablet or phone – that makes them easier to find too.
Think about setting up two-factor authentication, where you enter a code or use your fingerprint or face ID as well as a password to log in to a website or account, to add an extra layer of security. Find out more about two-factor authentication and how to set it up here.
It’s a time of year when lots of charities are asking for donations. Most are legitimate – but scammers may also pretend to be collecting for a good cause. It’s easy to be taken in or to feel pressured to give money even if you’re not 100% comfortable.
One very simple way to stay safe is to avoid opening the door to people who arrive without warning. If you do open the door to someone who says they’re collecting for a charity, ask them to leave a leaflet and come back another time. Remember, it’s also OK to just say ‘no’. If you want to donate to a particular charity, you can do it online, by phone or by post.
• Bookmark your favourite online shopping websites so you always know you’re clicking on the right link
• Use strong passwords and turn on two-factor authentication for extra protection
• Don’t click on links in emails unless someone you trust has checked them for you
• Put up a ‘No cold callers’ sign on your door
• Donate to charity through official websites or phone numbers
• Ask your bank to set a limit on your bank card so you can’t spend more than you’d planned, or get a card like Sibstar to help you manage your spending and keep your money safe and secure
• Think about allowing a family member or trusted friend to access your bank account, for example through a lasting power of attorney. It can be reassuring to know someone else is keeping an eye on things.
Want to know more about managing your finances with dementia? The NHS has some useful advice.
Need more support? Contact us for advice and guidance on living with dementia.
Want more practical tips on protecting yourself from doorstep scams? Kent County Council has lots of advice including where to get a “no cold callers” sign.
If you’re an HSBC customer, you can get advice on dealing with banking scams here.
Finally, if you’re worried that you may have been scammed, you can get support here:
✔Action Fraud: If you think you may have been scammed, report it to Action Fraud either over the phone or via their website.
✔Citizens Advice: Contact Citizens Advice if you think you’ve been scammed on your doorstep. They can advise you, and also pass your report on to Trading Standards which could help protect other people.