Scam Prevention Event to be held at Three Rivers Healthy Hub this week

In order to curb the impact of scam attempts, especially around the festive season, Money Advice Workshops were held to better inform the residents of Three Rivers. Due to the success of the event, Three Rivers has decided to hold a scam prevention drop in on Thursday, 22 February.

The November sessions were open to all but focused on engaging with established groups in the community that were the most susceptible to scams to give them the correct tools to protect themselves. Trading Standards were on hand to share information on the most up to date ways to best avoid scams, be aware of upcoming spending trends and safeguarding.

Money Advice Unit focused on the ensuring the attendees with low-income groups or individuals e.g. carers, disabled children, vulnerable adults, people affected by cancer, people with mental ill health and people experiencing a crisis were able to access benefit support they’re eligible for. Their bespoke support provides benefit checks, advice on claiming, help with form filling, advocacy with the various benefit authorities and, in specific circumstances, representation at appeal tribunals.

The sessions took place on 10 November and 21 November at The Clitheroe Health and Wellbeing Centre and 13 November at Abbots Langley Social Club.

The attendees were equipped with this information:

Recognise

Fake delivery scams: if you get an unexpected text or email informing you of a delivery that could not be delivered, avoid pressing the link and do not enter your card details. If you have been asked to pay through an unusual method such as a money transfer services, it is a sign that the product is not legitimate.

Research

Before purchasing from a new website, research it by checking the company’s terms, address, delivery options, cost and return policy.

Reclaim

Using a credit card can offer additional protection against non-delivery, misdescription or seller insolvency. Even a partial credit card payment secures the entire cost.

Report

Call Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 or call your bank to report any suspected incidents to the police or bank. Alternatively, Contact Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Residents can also access Hertfordshire Constabulary’s guidance on personal fraud.

Residents are invited to drop in to the scam prevention event on 22 February at any time between 12-2 at Oxhey Library, Bridlington Rd, South Oxhey, WD19 7AG.

For more information and advice on how to get care and support, contact Hertfordshire County Council’s services by calling 0300 123 4042. For the textphone option, contact 0300 123 4041. Alternatively, email contact@hertfordshire.gov.uk. Residents can also access information through Hertfordshire County Council’s adult services.

If you any queries about the raised topics, you can email healthyhub@threerivers.gov.ukor call 01923 727239 to speak to the Healthy Hub Coordinator. You can also complete a Healthy Hub enquiry form and your local Healthy Hub team will be in touch to help you get the support you need.