Beware of scams before Christmas

SIR, — It is an unfortunate fact that those who see nothing wrong with ripping off others will view Christmas as a time of opportunity.

A couple of days ago, I opened an email, apparently from a constituent, explaining that he had been mugged on a business trip to Italy, had lost all his money, credit cards and passport, and was desperate for help. He went on to suggest the easiest way for me to assist was to mail money electronically by Western Union.

At that time in the morning, my instinct was to immediately respond. After all, what could be worse than finding yourself stuck abroad with no money, no support, and possibly suffering some form of post-traumatic stress from the attack?

Thankfully, it soon struck me as suspicious and I checked it out. It was a scam. The email was, in fact, part of a systematic attempt to fraud by sending “Help! I’ve been robbed” messages.

The other common scams to beware of are fake credit providers offering fast loans online; callers claiming you have a computer virus; fake website offering counterfeit goods; and “free” trials of goods that commit you to big payments. I urge all Recorder readers to beware scams at this time and not allow the Festive season to be ruined by others.

Yours etc.,

MIKE NESBITT MLA,

Strangford.