More than 30 residents attended a ‘Stop Being Scammed!’ talk for Merton Neighbourhood Watch that took place online on February 10. Merton Council’s Trading Standards were joined by the Cannon Hill Safer Neighbourhood Team to explain the most common forms of scams and how to avoid them. 

If you missed the meeting but want to avoid being scammed, remember the following advice from the National Neighbourhood Watch Association: ‘Take Five to stop fraud’. 

Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop and think. It could protect you and your money. 

STOP Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. 

CHALLENGE Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. 

PROTECT Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. 

If you would like to find out more about Neighbourhood Watch, contact: nhw@merton.gov.uk 

If you would like a free talk on scams for a community group, contact trading.standards@merton.gov.uk