There was a very good turnout for our meeting on 5th October, when PCSO Sarah Dufton from the Police Neighbourhood Safety Team talked to us about Online Safety and Scam Awareness. With our lives involving the use of so many technology items, Sarah explained very well the pitfalls to be avoided in order to stay safe online and in using phones. She emphasized the importance of being permanently alert, thus reducing the risk of being caught out in so many ways.
The first line of defence is to ensure that we always have the most up to date version of whatever device we use to access the internet and emails. She also stressed the need for separate and strong passwords for each different account. We were also told that police and banks will never ask anyone to move funds or to provide their PIN number. Most importantly, she repeated the old adage that if anything appears too good to be true then it almost always is.
As most of us make use of the email facility the warning is always to ensure that the source is genuine before acting on requests or replying. “Phishing” emails are sent to obtain information, so don’t click on links or open an attachment if there is any cause for concern. Any suspected phishing emails can be forwarded to report@phishing.gov.uk which could provide help in attempting to trace the offender.
We were supplied with a very useful booklet “Avoiding Scams” from AgeUK and a sheet with plenty of information on how to protect yourself, your information and your money.
On Wednesday, 2nd November, we will be having our annual meal out for the group, and we are going to the Walton Golf Club, meeting at 6.30 for 7pm. This should be a very suitable venue and with a good number attending we look forward to an enjoyable evening.
Please contact me with any queries.
Trish Law – Committee Member