Regional Organised Crime Unit (West Midlands)

Trying to get your hands on a ticket for your next event? Stop and think. 🛑 - Always book through official sellers or resellers. - Avoid buying tickets on social media. - Pay using a secure platform and avoid using bank transfer. #STARtickets #TicketScams #GrandNational

As the tax year ends and potential bonuses arrive, criminals can target people with fake investments. ✅If you are looking to invest, do your research by using the FCA Firm Checker. ❌If you’re approached out the blue and feel pressured to invest, this could be scam. #TakeFive

Trying to make some extra money through investing? 📈 ☑️Use the FCA’s Firm Checker tool. 🔗Avoid clicking on ads from social media. 🚫If someone calls or emails you out the blue with an exclusive opportunity, this could be a scam. 🔍Do your research and read reviews. #TakeFive

Stay one step ahead of online scammers: Avoid clicking on links in emails or messages Be wary of clicking on ads from social media Double check web addresses Avoid using public Wi-Fi to access accounts that have personal or financial info #OnlineScams #TakeFive

Do you know how much of your info is online? Scammers can use details to gain your trust or answer security questions. ✅ Check your privacy settings ✅ Review what’s publicly available ✅ Be mindful of what you share #TakeFive #StopChallengeProtect

Criminals create convincing online profiles to build trust, then ask for money If someone you’re speaking to online asks for financial help: ✅ Stop and think ✅ Never send money, gift cards or bank details ✅ Talk to someone you trust for a 2nd opinion #RomanceScams #TakeFive

This #ValentinesDay, look out for loved ones. Romance scams can cause real harm – criminals may rush into declarations of love or ask for money. Stop, think, and talk to someone you trust before sending money or personal info. #TakeFive #StopChallengeProtect

Top tips to keep yourself safe from online scams: 💻 Use strong and unique passwords for online accounts 💻 Turn on 2FA to add an extra layer of security 💻 Avoid clicking links from social media, emails, texts or online ads 💻 Update your software and apps regularly #TakeFive

Met someone online recently? Stop and think 🛑 Criminals will research you for information to get closer to you and then invent reasons for needing money. Never send money, gift cards, or bank details to someone you’ve met online or have only met a few times in person.

What is love bombing? 💔 A manipulative tactic that criminals can use steal your money or personal info. They overwhelm you with attention and constant communication. Always consider the possibility of a romance scam and #TakeFive to speak to a friend.

🚨Scam alert – fake job offers 🚨 Criminals are sending messages posing as recruiters. If you receive a message like this, stop and think. Ask yourself, could it be fake? Always do your research and #StopChallengeProtect #TakeFive #Jobscams

Received a message about a job offer? January can be a great time for job hunting, but make sure you watch out for: 1️⃣ They’ve reviewed your CV even though you never sent it 2️⃣ Pressure to act fast or pay to secure a role 3️⃣ Coaching or CV services with no credentials

👉 Half of all UK crime is cyber crime and fraud. If it happens to you, tell Report Fraud. Learn more: orlo.uk/t09qK #EveryReportCounts

💙Blue Monday reminder 💙 Feeling tired, low, or maybe a bit distracted today? Keep your guard up against scammers 💪 Watch out for: 🔴 Unexpected requests for your money or information 🔴 Messages which pressure you to act fast 🔴 Offers that sound too good to be true

Scrolling through Boxing Day sales? 🤳 Criminals will try to rush or panic you into making a purchase for something that never materialises. Always make sure you’re buying from a reputable source and if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! #TakeFive

‘Tis the season to check in on your loved ones🎄 Without someone to confide in, people can feel isolated and be more vulnerable to #scams. Let’s #TakeFive to protect each other and #StopChallengeProtect this Christmas.

Expecting a delivery? 🚚 🔴Stop: Don’t click on unexpected links or attachments. 🟡Challenge: Ask yourself – were you expecting a delivery? Does the message look suspicious? 🟢Protect: Report the message to 7726 and only use official apps or websites to track parcels.

Criminals send fake texts hoping you're waiting for a parcel. 📱🎁 They want access to your money and information. Always #TakeFive to log into your account directly and avoid any links in emails or messages. If you receive a scam text report it by forwarding to 7726.

Received a text for a delivery? 📦 Stop and think, you shouldn’t have to pay a fee for a missed delivery. If you’re unsure, check delivery notifications to ensure they are genuine. #TakeFive and avoid clicking on links in messages or emails.

Looking for a good deal on Christmas presents? 🎁 Criminals create fake websites that impersonate big brands. Always verify the site’s authenticity before entering any personal or financial details. #TakeFive to Stop, Challenge and Protect this Christmas.