Residents of Jersey and Guernsey have been urged to remain vigilant against fraud, with a senior financial expert warning that their "trusting communities" could make them more vulnerable to scammers.
Doug Melville, chief executive of the Channel Islands Financial Ombudsman, shared five key tips to help Islanders protect themselves. He emphasized the importance of not sharing personal information, remaining cautious of suspicious communication, and taking swift action if targeted.
1. Do Not Share Passwords
Mr. Melville stressed that sharing login details or passwords is a critical mistake.
"Anyone asking for them is a bad actor trying to gain access to your online bank account," he said.
He also advised Islanders to avoid disclosing one-time passcodes, which banks typically use to authenticate account holders. Sharing these codes gives scammers direct access to accounts.
2. Verify Caller Identity
Mr. Melville warned against assuming people are who they claim to be over the phone or via text.
"If someone contacts you unexpectedly, hang up and avoid responding to suspicious messages," he advised. He recommended using trusted contact numbers to verify a caller’s authenticity, particularly when concerned about potential fraud.
3. Never Allow Remote Access
Allowing external parties to remotely control your computer is another way scammers can gain access to sensitive information.
"You’re essentially handing them the keys to your computer and, by extension, your financial accounts," Mr. Melville explained.
4. Act Immediately if Scammed
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, Mr. Melville urged immediate action.
"Don’t waste time worrying. Seek guidance from your bank, friends, and family," he said. He highlighted the importance of reporting scams promptly, particularly when significant financial losses are involved.
5. Stay Alert in Trusting Communities
Mr. Melville acknowledged that the close-knit and trusting nature of Channel Islands communities might increase susceptibility to fraud. "This is a battle we’re all engaged in," he said. "There’s no shame in being targeted by scammers, but staying vigilant and informed is your best defense." By following these tips, Islanders can better protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.