Citizens Advice say that something might be a scam if:

  •  Something seems too good to be true
  • You’re being asked to send your personal information
  • Someone you don’t know contacts you unexpectedly
  • You feel like you’re not dealing with a real company
  • You’ve been asked to transfer money quickly
  • You've been asked to pay in an unusual way.

Here are some simple ways to stay safe if you’re concerned:

Dos

If you feel a text, phone call or email you’ve received is suspicious, trust your instincts.

Always double-check the identity of callers or messages and always ask to see ID from people at your door.

Take extra care about sharing personal details online and on phone calls.

Create complex passwords if you use online services and change them regularly.

Add this extra layer of security to your online accounts.

Regularly update your applications and devices with the latest software releases for maximum protection.

DON'TS

Scammers can create spoof numbers and caller IDs, making them appear legitimate.

Don’t click on links in unexpected emails or text messages.

Never share sensitive information, such as passwords or bank details, over the phone or online, unless you’re sure of the requester’s identity.

Take your time and think twice if you have any concerns or doubts about what you’re being asked to do.

Avoid using unsecure or public connections when accessing personal accounts or online banking.

Contact Southern Housing

If you receive a letter or email from us and you just want to check that it is from us, please contact us.

At Southern Housing, all colleagues and contractors carry ID. Always ask to see this ID before you let anyone into your home.

And if you’re ever in any doubt, please call us first and we'll be able to check for you

Useful online support

Useful reporting tools

Further support

  • Cyber Aware - provides cyber security advice for small business and individuals.
  • Get Safe Online - the UK’s most popular source of easy-to-understand information about online safety.
  • National Cyber Security Centre - The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is a part of GCHQ and is the UK’s lead authority on cyber security.
  • Royal Mail Scam Mail Helpline - support and advice if you’ve received items by post that you believe to be fraudulent. Call 0800 011 3466.
  • The Mailing Preference Service (MPS) - a free service supported by Royal Mail enabling UK customers to remove their name and home address from mailing lists used by the industry. Call 020 7291 3300.
  • The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) - a free service for recording your preference not to receive unsolicited sales or marketing calls. Call 0800 398 893.