![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Screenshot-2022-08-17-133244-2.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nMy immediate reaction was that it was quite amusing and not particularly sophisticated. Obviously the sender has no idea who I am or what I look like. This is probably because I don\u2019t use my actual picture as my profile \u2013 so although I may look like a beautiful woman to some people it would probably be only at some distance, with one eye closed on a very foggy day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Needless to say I wasn\u2019t tempted to send a friend request. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even though I agree that I am indeed the Chief of Angels!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This was all the result of a review I left on Facebook about a nice little place whilst having a beer and ice cream on holiday. (You CAN have both as you are on holiday!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A more ‘serious’ attempt came recently via SMS:<\/p>\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Messenger-phish-485x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nThis type of \u2018Friend in Need\u2019 message does appear to represent a trend being seen using tactics similar to the one above or going further by requesting money to be transferred in order to get a friend or close relative out of trouble. I have also seen reports where these messages are very personal and identify friends or family members by name making them appear very realistic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/www.actionfraud.police.uk\/alert\/friendinneed<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Another alarming trend is the increase in \u2018mandate fraud\u2019 types of attacks which may attract victims with promises of cheaper energy bills, rebates or better payment options. Let\u2019s face it \u2013 we would all be interested in that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ofgem has some cracking advice and guidance and reporting tools on their site:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Avoid and report energy scams | Ofgem<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n So what should we do about it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Number one \u2013 continue to have fun and enjoy your time in Sun. Check in to lovely places to make your friends jealous, leave reviews of bars you visit, take photos of your breakfast and post them across all social media platforms. Don\u2019t let the scammers win or put you off having a great time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, reflect on your social media profile. How many E-Friends do you need? Do a check when responding to comments and especially third-party posts. Facebook and Instagram are notorious for this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t post anything that might be too personal about you, your friends and family. And don\u2019t respond to people you don\u2019t know. After all you wouldn\u2019t engage with the Nutter on the Bus!? Would you? #JasperCarrott<\/p>\n\n\n\n Jasper Carrott – Nutter on the bus – Bing video<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Use the built in reporting and blocking tools in the applications. These DO make a difference. Don\u2019t respond even if you think it is amusing to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Report to Action Fraud and use their website as a great source of advice and information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n