The internet can be an incredibly useful resource that helps people stay connected, as well as access information and services. However, there are also some risks to be aware of, such as online scams and fraud.
Below are some quick and easy tips that we hope will help you to stay safe online and prevent you falling victim to unwanted scams:
- Be cautious and listen to your instincts. Never be afraid to delete an email or notification you suspect is fraudulent.
- Don’t assume every offer online is genuine, take your time and don’t be rushed.
- Be very wary of offers made through emails or notifications that have come to you out of the blue.
- Know who you are dealing with online and take a moment to think ‘is my information and money safe?’.
- Never click links or open attachments in unexpected emails or text messages.
- Your bank or the police will never ask for your bank details, for you to withdraw cash to be collected or transfer money to another ‘safe’ account.
- Protect your financial information, especially from people you don’t know. Think carefully before giving bank details and never share your PIN with anyone.
To report a scam or get advice
Action Fraud
Contact the Action Fraud team to report all types of scams. Action fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud.
Citizens Advice consumer helpline
Citizens Advice will provide advice and share information with trading Standards. Visit Citizens Advice .
T: 08082331133.
Norfolk Police
If a crime is happening now or recently occurred, or if the victim is vulnerable or unable to protect themselves from fraud, you should contact the Norfolk Constabulary.
Norfolk Scams Prevention Service
Norfolk & Suffolk Victim Care offer specialist help and support if you’ve been the victim of a scam.
T: 03003 033706
Public access Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi hotspots
A Wi-Fi hotspot is somewhere you can connect to the internet wirelessly via Wi-Fi, often for free. Hotspots are popular with smartphone users as they allow internet access without using your data allowance.
There are many businesses and organisations who offer free public access to Wi-Fi to customers in Norwich. Many shops, cafes and public places – such as train stations, airports and hospitals offer free Wi-Fi. You may need to enter some personal details or an email address to get online.
Free public access Wi-Fi is available at all libraries in Norfolk.
Landline telephone digital switchover
The UK’s telephone network is changing. Between now and 2025 the old analogue telephone landlines will be upgraded to landline services using digital technology.
The good news is that your landline isn’t going anywhere and for most people, this change will be straightforward. But if you, or a relative, use any of the following types of service that rely on a telephone landline then this will affect you:
- Landline telephone for making calls.
- Telecare service
- Fire alarm
- Burglar alarm
In most cases you don’t need to do anything until your provider tells you that your telephone service is changing.
However, if you or someone you know is dependent on a landline telephone, or a service that relies on it, such as a telecare device, personal alarm, or burglar/fire alarm, then it is recommended that you check with the provider of the service to see what their plans are for the service, and when they expect the changes to happen. They will also be able to advise on whether the device will need to be upgraded or replaced. For further information, visit Norfolk County Council’s dedicated digital switchover webpage.
