Residents of Crawley are unfortunately targeted by a range of scams, contributing to a crime rate of 130.8 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average of 91.6. While this figure doesn't directly isolate scam-related crime, it reflects an overall increased risk of criminal activity in the area, with a safety score of 70/100, also below the UK average of 79.
Common scams reported in similar areas include, but are not limited to, phone scams where fraudsters impersonate banks or government officials to obtain personal and financial details. These often involve urgent requests for payment or verification of information. Postal scams remain a persistent threat, with deceptive letters promising prizes or requesting personal information. Online scams are also prevalent, with fake websites and emails designed to steal login credentials or financial information. Romance scams, where criminals build fake online relationships to exploit victims for money, are also a growing concern.
It's important to be particularly cautious with unsolicited communications. Legitimate organisations will rarely ask for sensitive information via phone, email, or post. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, and never feel pressured into making hasty decisions. Always independently verify the identity of anyone requesting personal or financial information. For example, if you receive a call supposedly from your bank, hang up and call the bank directly using a known, trusted number.
Protecting yourself involves several steps. Regularly review bank and credit card statements for any unusual activity. Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts. Be cautious about clicking on links or opening attachments in emails from unknown senders. If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scam, report it to Action Fraud (actionfraud.police.uk) and consider contacting West Sussex County Council’s consumer advice service for further assistance.