TO HELP prevent customer fraud when buying online this Christmas, Hampshire Police is advising buyers to their computer security and research sellers websites.
Hampshire Police and Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Michael Lane are sharing important advice to help prevent online fraud.
Between October 2016 and March 2017 Hampshire Constabulary received 541 reports of fraud relating to online shopping and auctions.
The national picture reveals the wider extent of the problem with Action Fraud estimating that in 2015 around £10 million was lost to fraudsters across the UK while people were shopping online for Christmas presents.
Mr Lane said: “At this time of year more people than ever go online to shop and it is important they are cyber safe.
“By following practical advice and guidance their likelihood of becoming a victim to online fraud in the lead up to Christmas will be reduced.
“I would urge everyone to follow the cyber safe advice and not get conned this Christmas.”
Quick checks include the warning that if a deal or bargain looks too good to be true – it probably is, so research the sellers website to check it’s legitimate.
Search for user reviews, check out sites like Trustpilot, and see how other shoppers have rated the site.
Hampshire Assistant Chief Constable Ben Snuggs said: “Most of us lead many aspects of our lives online, and many of our social interactions, friendships and working relationships are made all the richer through these online connections. However, we sadly see many examples where people are tricked, manipulated and pressured into something that can have significant adverse financial, or personal, consequences.”
For more advice visit the website www.hampshire-pcc.gov.uk/stay-safer-online