Staying One Step Ahead of Criminals This Summer

As criminals continue to adapt their tactics, staying informed remains one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community. Fraudsters are increasingly using technology, social media, and impersonation techniques to target victims of all ages. The good news is that awareness and a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk.

🚨 Crime Trend: AI-Powered Impersonation Scams

Criminals are now using artificial intelligence to create convincing emails, messages, and even voice recordings that appear to come from trusted organisations, banks, or family members. Fraud is becoming increasingly online and technology-enabled, with criminals exploiting people's trust and reliance on digital services. [gov.uk]

How to Stay Safe

✅ Be cautious of urgent requests for money or personal information.

✅ Verify requests by contacting the person or organisation using a trusted phone number.

✅ Never transfer money to a "safe account". Banks will never ask you to do this.

✅ If something feels wrong, stop, challenge, and verify.

💔 Romance and Investment Scams on the Rise

Organised criminals continue to target victims through dating sites, social media platforms, and messaging apps. Romance fraud and investment fraud remain among the most harmful scams affecting UK residents, often causing significant emotional and financial damage. [gov.uk], [home.barclays]

Warning Signs

Remember

🔹 Never send money to someone you have not met face-to-face.

🔹 Seek a second opinion from a trusted friend or family member.

🔹 Genuine investment opportunities do not require immediate decisions.

📱 'Quishing' Scams: QR Codes You Can't Trust

Fraudsters are increasingly using fake QR codes to direct victims to fraudulent websites. Known as "quishing", these scams have been found on parking meters, public notices, emails, and letters. The National Cyber Security Centre has warned of an increase in QR-code related phishing attacks. [ncsc.gov.uk], [which.co.uk]

Before You Scan

✅ Check for signs of tampering or stickers placed over genuine QR codes.

✅ Preview the website address before proceeding.

✅ Be particularly cautious with QR codes in car parks and public spaces.

✅ Avoid entering payment details unless you are certain the website is legitimate.

📦 Parcel Delivery Scams Continue to Catch Victims Out

Many residents are receiving texts or emails claiming a parcel delivery has failed or that a small fee is required for redelivery. Criminals often impersonate well-known delivery companies such as Royal Mail, DPD, Evri, or Amazon. [takefive-s...aud.org.uk], [citizensad...and.org.uk]

Protect Yourself

🔒 Home Security Reminder

With warmer weather bringing more opportunities for outdoor activities and holidays, please remember:

🏠 Lock doors and windows when leaving your home, even for short periods.

🚲 Secure bicycles with quality locks and store them out of sight where possible.

🚗 Remove valuables from vehicles and never leave items on display.

💡 Consider using timer switches to give the impression someone is home when away.

📸 Register valuable property and keep photographs and serial numbers stored safely.

👀 If You Think You've Been Scammed

Act quickly:

Crime prevention advice

Also find out more crime prevention advice by visiting our Leicestershire Police Webiste below

Crime prevention advice | Leicestershire Police

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