In today's digital age, scams have become increasingly sophisticated and prevalent. Whether it's a fraudulent text posing as one of our teams contacting you, or a fake email designed to steal your personal information, scams come in various forms, and they can target anyone. However, with some knowledge and vigilance, you can protect yourself from falling victim to scams.
One of the most common ways scammers reach their targets is through unsolicited phone calls, emails, or messages. Be cautious when you receive such communications, especially if they ask for personal or financial information. We will not contact you out of the blue asking for sensitive information.
If you receive an email, message, or phone call from an entity claiming to be South Essex Homes, take your time to verify this. If you’re still unsure, give us a call to check if it is really us. Do not use contact details provided in the suspicious communication, as scammers often create fake phone numbers, you can contact us on 0800 833 160.
Scammers often use malicious links and downloads to infect your device with malware or steal your data. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Hover your mouse over links to preview the URL before clicking to see if it matches the expected website.
Knowledge is your best defence against scams. Stay informed about the latest scams and techniques that scammers use. Familiarize yourself with common red flags, we will go into detail about the most recent scams affecting our residents below.
Disrepair claims companies have been targeting residents of South Essex Homes for several months using methods such as phone calls, social media, and now large mail outs to specific areas.
These companies often employ aggressive marketing tactics that can mislead residents into thinking they are entitled to compensation. They may exaggerate the potential damages tenants can claim or make promises of quick and easy payouts. The legal process for claiming disrepair compensation can be complex, and not all issues qualify for compensation. Tenants may find themselves investing time and money into claims that have little chance of success.
Find out more about this here: Disrepair Claims | South Essex Homes
We have been made aware of companies targeting residents by sending WhatsApp messages posing as South Essex Homes’ Property Services team. We currently DO NOT send out messages via WhatsApp but if you are ever unsure, please contact us to check the legitimacy of these messages.
We have recently been informed that some tenants have received texts claiming to be from our Specialist Income Management team asking them to click on a link to view changes to the way their rent is paid. We have not sent out any messages of this nature so please do not click on such links unless you are sure it has come from us.
Vulnerable residents that use health care telephony devices are being scammed into giving their personal information away, with this including bank details.
These devices are used by approximately 1.8 million people around the country and they are currently in the process of being switched from analogue to digital, but this is something that is free and residents should be aware that councils and their home care alarm providers or contractors will never ask for personal or financial information over the phone.
If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to rush you into making decisions. Take your time and seek advice from trusted friends or family if you have doubts. Any reputable company would understand if you ask for time to consider, if they try to pressure you into a ‘one time deal’ or a ‘special discounted price’, you should be cautious.
Many standard companies will offer a 14-day cooling off period once you purchase their product/services. If they cannot offer this, ask why, and be sceptical of doing business with them.
If you encounter a scam or believe you have been targeted, report it to Action Fraud (Action Fraud) and don’t forget to let us know too! Reporting scams helps to prevent others from falling victim.