SPD leaders reveal strategies for deception at the entrance
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM, the AWO Meeting Center in Oberhausen will host an educational event aimed at helping residents recognize and avoid doorstep fraud. The event, titled "Fraud & Tricks at the Doorstep," will be led by Criminal Inspector Laura Millow from the Oberhausen Police's Department of Criminal Prevention and Victim Protection.
The objective of the event is twofold: to educate attendees on the methods used by fraudsters and to provide safety measures, particularly for older individuals. Inspector Millow will delve into the tactics employed by "Tricksters," including "Fake Official Pretenders," "Pressure Tactics," "Unsolicited Offers and Services," "Money Collection Schemes," and "Pretexting."
To help attendees recognize fraudsters, Inspector Millow will emphasize the importance of verifying identities, being skeptical of urgent requests, watching for poor equipment or documentation, and trusting instincts. She will also provide practical advice on how to avoid doorstep fraud, such as using a peephole or doorchain when answering, never paying cash immediately, informing family and neighbours, and reporting suspicious activities to local police or consumer protection agencies.
Inspector Millow encourages residents to remember that it's acceptable to decline services or requests from strangers and to consider registering on no-solicitation lists if available. She emphasizes the importance of educating elderly residents about these risks to help protect them from falling victim to doorstep fraud schemes.
This event is a valuable opportunity for residents of Oberhausen to learn about the common tricks used by doorstep fraudsters and to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect themselves and their loved ones. Don't miss out on this informative session at the AWO Meeting Center on June 12, 2024.
Here's a quick checklist based on Inspector Millow’s advice:
- Always verify the identity of strangers at your door.
- Be wary of urgent requests and never feel pressured to make immediate payments or provide personal information.
- Look for signs of poor equipment or documentation, as genuine workers usually carry proper tools and documentation.
- Use a peephole or doorchain when answering the door to screen visitors.
- Never pay cash immediately for services or fees. Request written documentation and delay payment until verification.
- Inform family and neighbours about fraud prevention tips and stay alert for suspicious activities in the neighbourhood.
- Report any suspicious activities to local police or consumer protection agencies.
- Consider registering on no-solicitation lists if available.
- Remember that it's acceptable to decline services or requests from strangers.
- Support and educate elderly residents about these risks to help protect them from doorstep fraud.
- In addition to the fraud awareness event on doorstep scams, attending a health-and-wellness seminar focusing on mental health could also be beneficial for Oberhausen residents, ensuring their overall well-being.
- Moreover, individuals may find discussing general news and current events during weekly meetups at the AWO Meeting Center valuable, as it helps strengthen the community and fosters informed discussions.
- Lastly, while promoting crime-and-justice awareness through events such as "Fraud & Tricks at the Doorstep," citizens may also consider volunteer work or support for local mental health organizations to further contribute to the welfare of their community.
