Resident

Phishing is when fraudsters use sneaky tactics to get hold of your personal details, often by pretending to be a company or organisation you trust. They might send you an email that looks like it's from your bank, or a text message that seems to be from a reputable company.

These fraudsters are after things like:

·  Your bank account details

·  Passwords

·  Credit card numbers

·  Personal information like your date of birth

They might try to scare you into action by saying there's a problem with your account, or tempt you with a too-good-to-be-true offer. The goal is to get you to click on a dodgy link, download a harmful file, or hand over your information.

It's called "phishing" because the fraudsters are fishing for your information, casting out their bait and hoping you'll bite.

Key Facts:

·  32 million phishing emails reported

·  329,000+ malicious websites removed

·  44% increase in reports from 2022 to 2023

·  60,000+ dodgy websites taken down in March 2024 alone

Remember, if something seems fishy, it probably is! 

·  Be wary of unexpected emails or texts asking for personal info

·  Don't click suspicious links or download unknown attachments

·  Check sender details carefully - fraudsters often pose as trusted organisations

·  If unsure, contact the company directly using their official website

For further fraud advice, or to arrange a free police fraud and cybercrime talk for your local community group, club or organisation, email tara.cooksammy@northants.police.uk or stephen.sangster@northants.police.uk

  Report Suspicious Activity:

·  Suspicious emails: Forward to report@phishing.gov.uk

·  Suspicious texts: Forward to 7726 (it's free!)

  Remember: Your bank will NEVER ask for sensitive details via email or text.

 Stay alert, stay safe! 

PCSO Tara Cooksammy

Daventry Police station