As the festive season approaches, reports of various scams on the Isle of Wight have surfaced. One of the most common scams involves receiving a computer-generated call claiming that payments have been taken from your Visa/Mastercard account or Amazon account. The scammers prompt individuals to press 1 to report a fraud. It is crucial to remember that these calls are all scams, and it is essential not to respond to them.
Some reports have indicated that scammers pose as the Bank or Council Tax refund department. It is important to note that legitimate organizations will never contact individuals in this manner. The scammers may use numbers starting with 01983, which might give a false sense of legitimacy. However, scammers can obtain various UK numbers, so it is not always safe to trust a number starting with 01983.
To safeguard against falling victim to these scams, setting up call blocking on your landline is highly recommended. Call blocking services are free for Wightfibre, Sky, or Talk Talk customers, or you can invest in call blocking phones. The National Scams Team offers free call blocking units for individuals who are particularly vulnerable or have been repeat victims of scams.
In addition to protecting yourself from scams, residents and businesses in Ryde have celebrated the official reopening of the town’s police station. The Isle of Wight Council is also considering approving over a million pounds in cost of living support to assist Islanders in need. Moreover, there is an ongoing consultation on proposals to address the surplus places in Isle of Wight primary schools, giving residents an opportunity to voice their opinions.
Furthermore, the Ryde Railway Pier strengthening and refurbishment works have been deemed critical and will proceed as planned. Southern Vectis is urging passengers, especially in rural areas, to ensure they are visible at bus stops as evenings darken. The Isle of Wight Council’s representative for Parkhurst and Hunnyhill has expressed disappointment over the limited progress in upgrading prison estate roads.
As you navigate through the holiday season and beyond, it is crucial to remain vigilant against scams and stay informed about local developments and initiatives. By staying aware and taking proactive measures to protect yourself, you can ensure a safer and more secure environment for yourself and your community. Remember, if you ever receive suspicious calls or messages, it is always best to verify the information with the relevant authorities before taking any action. Stay safe this holiday season and beyond on the Isle of Wight!
