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Dear All- This is also- SCAM Awareness week ON BBC TV with daily Coverage Great safety advice and Guidance- Scam & Cyber Awareness Event – Monday 8 December, 18:30 Great opportunity to get face to face advice
Join us at Castle Donington Village Hall, 57 Moira Dale, DE74 2PJ on Monday 8 December from 18:30–19:30 for a Scam & Cyber Awareness session.
The event will feature specialist advice from:
• Nottingham Building Society Fraud Manager
• Experian
• Local Police Beat Team We will cover four key areas: Romance Scams, Christmas Scams, Gaming Scams, and Money Mules. Today’s focus: GAMING
As online gaming continues to grow, so does the number of scams targeting players of all ages. Below is some important information to help you recognise common gaming scams and protect yourself while enjoying your favourite games.
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Common Types of Gaming Scams
Phishing
Scammers send fake emails or in-game messages that look official, directing you to a false login page designed to steal your password.
In-game currency & generator scams
Offers of free currency such as V-Bucks, Roblox or similar are always fraudulent. These websites often contain malware or are set up to steal your account information.
Fake downloads
Be cautious of “mods,” cheat codes, or unlimited content downloads from unofficial sites. These often install malicious software that can compromise your device and data.
Trading scams
Scammers may promise to trade valuable in-game items but take your item without giving anything in return.
Impersonation
Some scammers pose as YouTubers, streamers, or official support staff to gain your trust and steal your account or personal details.
Payment and account fraud
This includes using stolen credit cards for in-app purchases or gaining unauthorised access to your account to make purchases or steal in-game items.
Social engineering
Scammers may build trust through conversation over time. Once they feel you are comfortable, they attempt to persuade you to share personal or financial information.
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How to Protect Yourself
• Use strong passwords: Create a unique, complex password for each gaming account and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Be sceptical of “free offers”: If something sounds too good to be true—such as free currency or surprise giveaways—it almost always is.
• Use official sources only: Always purchase items or currency through the game’s official store or verified retailers.
• Avoid suspicious links: Never click links in unsolicited emails, messages, or adverts.
• Keep personal details private: Do not share your real name, home address, banking details, or other personal information with other players.
• Report suspicious activity: If you encounter a scam or suspect one, report it immediately to the game’s support team. If necessary, also report it to the appropriate authorities.
Valley Beat 43 Team PCSO 6517 Tony Gallagher
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