Staying safe when out and about: A Home Instead Epsom & Dorking guide

Types of scams, and how our Care Pros spot them:

Cash machine scams are a common form of distraction scam which targets people when they are trying to withdraw money from an ATM. They can take multiple forms, whether a machine which deliberately traps your card or reads its information, or active shoulder-skimming, where someone reads your PIN over your shoulder and then steals your card through other means later.

• Our Care Pros always let their clients know the importance of remaining vigilant at a cash machine. Never talk to someone else at an ATM, and always cover the PIN pad with your hand if possible. You should check behind you to make sure nobody is reading over your shoulder, too.
• We also recommend setting up a maximum withdrawal amount, and we can assist our clients in doing so. This way, if their information gets taken, the thief cannot withdraw too much.

Fake QR code scams are a growing concern, where false QR codes are stuck over legitimate ones or added to car parking meters. When you scan them with your phone, they can lead you to bogus pages to pay or even sign you up to recurring subscriptions, which many people don’t realise until months down the line!

Our Care Professionals always keep their clients informed with developing technologies, acting as a helping hand to show them not only how to use QR codes but also how to stay safe when using them. If there is an alternate method of payment, we always recommend it, especially if the QR code sticker looks like it may have been tampered with. Some telltale signs are raised sticker edges, being made of a different material from the sign, or even ripping to the edges of the code. Normally, official QR codes will be present on every menu or meter, so if unsure, check an alternative one to double-check.

Pickpocketing and theft

Pickpocketing and theft are also major concerns, as they can happen anywhere, anytime. Being a target of theft feels personal and can cause victims to lose confidence or even fear going outside. Although it’s impossible to remain vigilant 24/7, there are small things you can do to avoid becoming a target.

• Our care professionals encourage their clients to practice safety when going about their daily routines, by ensuring they have locked the car before going into the shops, having a bag with a zip which they keep closed when not accessing their belongings or even making sure not to leave valuables on tables, you can discourage thieves.

By being aware of distraction techniques, you can also avoid becoming a target. Sometimes thieves will work in pairs, where one will speak to you and the other may attempt to steal your belongings. The easiest way to prevent this is to be aware if approached by a stranger. Even if they’re polite and friendly, it’s always worth double-checking the location of your valuables and making sure they’re secure.