It is important to stay safe in different situations.
If you are not sure, ask someone you trust for help.
Here are some simple tips to help you.
Lock your doors and windows
Fit a safety chain to your door and use it when answering the door.
Never leave your doors or windows open when you go out.
Never put your keys on a tag that has your address written on it.
Have a light outside the front of your home.
Keep your phone near you.
Do not open the door to people you don’t know.
Ask for ID or tell them to come back later.
Do not give out your full name, address, phone number, or bank details online.
Keep all your passwords secret.
Do not open messages from people you don’t know. Ask someone you trust.
Do not click on any links in emails from people you don’t know.
Do not meet up alone with a person you have met on the internet.
Ask someone you trust if you are not sure about something online.
Tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back.
It is safer to go out in daylight.
Walk with confidence.
Hold you head up high.
Keep your shoulders back.
Smile.
If you think you are being followed.
Walk to where there are lots of people like a shop and ask for help.
Keep your bag, wallet or purse on you at all times.
Never hang your bag on the back of your chair.
Do not get into a car with someone you don’t know.
Know important phone numbers in your phone or written down.
Call 999 if you need the police, ambulance, or fire service.
Do not carry too much money.
If you need to get money out, use a cashpoint machine inside a bank.
Keep your bank card and PIN number safe.
Do not tell anyone your PIN.
If someone asks for money and it feels wrong, ask someone you trust.
A scam is when someone pretends to help you but really wants to take your money or personal information.
They might:
Strange calls or messages
If someone contacts you and you didn’t expect it, be careful.
They might say:
Too good to be true
If it sounds amazing or like a big reward, it’s probably a scam.
Rushing you
Scammers want you to act fast.
Stop and think before you do anything.
Asking for money first
Real companies don’t ask for money before giving you something.
Fake websites
When shopping online, check:
What to do if you think it’s a scam
Remember
You can always ask for help.
If something doesn’t feel right, talk to someone you trust.
If you feel unsafe, talk to someone you trust.
This could be a friend, family member, or support worker.