Tag: advice

Expert reveals 7 tips to avoid online dating scams

Navigating the world of online dating can be tricky and it’s important not to lose sight of the potential dangers and scams that you may encounter whilst engaging with other potential matches.

That’s why security expert Nathan Daniels from VPNOverview.com has outlined 7 steps you can take to protect yourself when dating online to ensure you don’t have a negative experience.

Turn off location tracking

Many dating apps require that you turn on location tracking. This means you have to allow these apps to view your location. Dating apps use this information to get you into contact with people who are close to you geographically.

Of course, this is a very useful feature. Nevertheless, it’s understandable you might not want to share your exact location with a dating app, or with any service for that matter.

It is strongly recommended to turn off geo-tracking once you’re no longer actively using your dating app. That way, at the very least, you prevent the app from tracking you constantly.

Request a video chat (before your first date)

Another great safe online dating tip is to filter out fake dating profiles by requesting a video call. In fact, it can be a regular call as well, although video chatting is definitely better. Most people with fake profiles will be very reluctant to have a call, especially if a video is involved.

Obviously, it’s much easier for scammers to deceive their victims through text messages and sending someone else’s pictures. If they were to agree to a call, they would most likely just be discovered as fraudsters. As such, if someone refuses to have a (video) call, you might just be dealing with a fake profile.

Of course, you might be dealing with someone who is serious about meeting up at some point. In that case, a video call or a regular call is very useful as well. It will help you to gauge the other user’s intentions and character a little bit. This could help you avoid some dangerous scenarios.

Don’t connect your dating profiles to other social media or platforms

It might be tempting, for convenience reasons, to just log in on a dating app with your Facebook account or your main Google account. However, it is strongly recommend to not do this, as it’s a potential privacy hazard. Just think about it – you’re connecting a profile that’s intended for friends and family to a platform where you’ll be contacting tons of people you don’t know. Instead try using another way to log in, that can’t be traced back to you. One method, for instance, would be to create a Google account with random information that doesn’t contain any of your personal data.

Choose pictures you don’t use elsewhere

By using a reverse image search, someone can easily use your dating profile pictures against you. They can simply use this Google tool to find other pages where the images appear. This way, they’ll easily find out your personal information, even if you didn’t include it on your dating profile.

As such, it is recommended to only use pictures on your dating profile that you’re not using anywhere else. This also means it’s a bad idea to allow Tinder or other dating apps to simply pull pictures from Facebook or other social media accounts.

Report suspicious activity and inappropriate behaviour

Many dating apps have ways to report profiles and/or inappropriate behaviour. This comes in handy when you come across a (potentially) fake profile or behaviour that makes you uncomfortable. By reporting the profile involved, you will make your own and others’ dating experiences safer.

After you report an account, the respective dating app will generally launch an investigation. If someone’s profile is found to be fake or they are found guilty of inappropriate behaviour, their account will be deleted.

Types of suspicious or inappropriate activity you might encounter on dating apps include the following:

  • Fake profiles. Always be wary if you see a profile that’s unverified, offers little information, or seems too good to be true.
  • Money demands. If someone asks you for money, there’s a good chance they’re a catfish.
  • Requests for explicit pictures. The person requesting these pictures might plan on sextorting you.
  • Inappropriate messages, such as messages containing threats or sexual intimidation.
  • Unacceptable behaviour during a physical meeting exhibited by the people you meet.
  • Messages where people try to sell you something or get you to do something unrelated to dating (spam).
  • Rejection of video calls, even after chatting with someone for a long time. This might indicate you’re dealing with a fake account.

Many dating platforms also offer the possibility of blocking a specific user. This is a great option if someone is bothering you and you don’t want to have them contact you while you’re awaiting the results of the dating app’s investigation after reporting them.

Be wary of malicious files and pages

Some catfish operate by infecting their victims’ devices with malware. Rather than asking you for money, they might attempt to infect your system with a keylogger, in the hope. of getting their hands on your financial data.

That’s why it’s recommended to not download or click on any files that a new chat partner might send you. It’s best to wait until you know them a bit better and trust the,. The same goes for visiting links they send you – both can contain dangerous malware.

Apart from always being vigilant, we recommend getting a solid antivirus solution to protect yourself from malware.

Delete your account when you’re done dating

Have you finally met your soul mater? Or have you had your fill of casual dating fun? Either way, consider another valuable safe online dating tip, and make sure to delete your online dating account once you’re done dating.

Deleting your dating profile will erase (most of) your personal information on the dating platform in question. As a result, it will be much more difficult for others to abuse your personal information.

Keep pets safe during New Year fireworks, urge vets

As the nation sees in the New Year with celebratory fireworks, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is advising owners on how to keep their pets safe during the celebrations.

Firework noise can reach up to 150 decibels and pets can be particularly sensitive to noise, meaning New Year’s Eve can be traumatic for them. Luckily there are some simple things that can be done around the house to prevent unnecessary stress for dogs, cats and other pets.

Five top tips to help keep your pets calm during New Year’s Eve:

  • Prepare a den for your pet before New Year’s Eve and give them praise when they are relaxed there, so they come to view it as a safe retreat.
  • Use pheromone products next to the den and around the home. These are scents that we can’t smell but can help to reduce a pet’s stress.
  • Provide background noise and close curtains and windows on New Year’s Eve, when fireworks are expected.
  • Remain calm yourself. Never punish your pet – remember, if they toilet in the house it’s not their fault.
  • Move small pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, to a quiet place indoors when fireworks are expected, and provide lots of bedding to help them feel secure and mask the sounds. If you are having a party, remember to move them to a quiet area of the house.

British Veterinary Association President Anna Judson, said: “New Year celebrations can be a frightening time for pets. Parties and gatherings often mean an increase in visitors and noise and a disruption to their usual routines.

“When we add in the anxiety caused by New Year’s Eve fireworks, it’s not surprising that many animals become unsettled and even distressed.

“We recommend that all owners make themselves aware of the specific symptoms of noise phobia in their animal and take steps to minimize the impact of fireworks and other festivities on their pets.”

Signs of distress can vary among different animals and some pets may display quite subtle signs, including restlessness, changes to facial expression, panting, drooling, reluctance to be on their own, toileting in the house or other changes in behaviour. However, in severe cases they may become very agitated or even destructive in their attempts to escape, with the most extreme cases requiring veterinary care.

If your pet is severely distressed by fireworks, a visit to your vet for some short-term treatment as well as to make plans with for a longer-term solution should be considered. A phobia of fireworks can often be effectively treated with behaviour-modification techniques, administered with professional input, and owner commitment and patience. Visit your vet to discuss treatment options and for a potential referral for behaviour therapy.

RoSPA: Make it an accident-free December to remember

  • RoSPA: with overall hospital admissions up across the board it’s more important than ever to prevent accidents and both reduce pressure on the NHS and ensure people’s Christmas isn’t ruined by spending hours in overcrowded A&Es.
  • RoSPA: Have fun and enjoy the festive period safely

Enjoy the festive season but make it a safe one too, that’s the message from accident prevention experts, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), ahead of the Christmas chaos.

NHS figures show that overall total hospital admissions for all causes were up last year[i], with over half a million emergency admissions – the equivalent to the population of Edinburgh requiring urgent treatment. 

Jim Oram, Public Health Project Officer at RoSPA advises reducing accident risk to avoid spending hours in overcrowded accident and emergency departments:  “It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement during the festive period, but having more people in the home can add to the risks.

“With some forward planning and awareness of potential hazards, your festive season can be safe and happy for everyone.”  

Here are RoSPA’s top tips to stay safe this festive season:   

  1. Reduce the risk of a fall

In the UK, we saw 7,229 patients admitted to hospital last December with hip fractures and that was up 20 per cent on the year before[1]. Keep yourself and loved ones safe by keeping the floor, stairs and walkways clear, and clean up any spillages as soon as you can. And if the weather takes an icy turn, grit the paths and walkways outside. 

  1. Only purchase gifts from reputable traders

When buying presents, opt for reputable retailers, especially when shopping online. If a trader does not have a high street presence in the UK, check online reviews before buying.  Online sellers should have a UK address listed on their website.

Look for the CE, UKCA, UKNI, and Lion marks on toys, and check for age-appropriateness and warnings.

Button batteries in toys should always be inside a lockable compartment, and any magnets used in toys should be secure to avoid ingestion.
 

  1. Prepare for young visitors

There are some fantastically fun novelty decorations out at this time of year, but it’s important to remember these are not toys and therefore do not have to comply with toy safety regulations.

If you have a young family or have children visiting, always be mindful of decorations they could put into their mouths. Some decorations are particularly risky, such as ones with unsecure button batteries, ones made from glass and those with magnets inside. It’s also worth having a check that cleaning products, vapes and medications are kept out of reach, and blind cords have the appropriate safety fixtures. 

  1. Think fire safety

Last year there were nearly 200,000 house fires in the UK alone[2], so taking fire safety seriously is key.

Use electrical candles over real flames, keep decorations and cards away from heat sources, replace old Christmas lights and try not to leave anything plugged in overnight. 

  1. Maximise kitchen safety

It’s a familiar scene – the chef cooking the roasties while helpers ferry plates from A to B, and children run around high on the festivities of the day. And while everyone should enjoy the atmosphere, it’s best to keep spirits high by avoiding accidents. Allow ample time to avoid accidents from rushing and where possible, keep non-helpers out of the kitchen.

Figures from the Hip Fracture Database indicate a peak in falls around December[3], so be sure to clean up spills and clutter promptly to reduce the risk of your family or friends falling over.

  1. Keep hot crockery and drinks out of reach

Burns are the fourth common form of trauma worldwide, after road traffic collisions, falls and interpersonal violence[4], with around half of those affected children. With a higher frequency of hot drinks, food, and cooked edibles around, be mindful to keep hot pans, plates and drinks out of reach. 

Tomorrow: Winter Warmer at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre

COMMUNITY EVENT – WEDNESDAY 29 NOVEMBER from 9.30am

Campaign launched to keep Scotland’s homes safe in winter

Edinburgh urged to get winter ready after chilling -8C lows

A WATER expert is calling on the public to get their homes prepared for winter to avoid burst pipes and irreparable damage during Scotland’s coldest months.

With the Met Office reporting temperatures as low as -8C in Edinburgh last winter, Scottish Water has launched its ‘Be Winter Wise’ campaign sharing simple steps to save water, save money and protect homes.

In 2022 the public body reported a surge in burst pipes due to rapid thaw, resulting in millions of pounds worth of damage and an additional 250 million litres of water a day pumped into the network.

Brian Lironi, Director of Corporate Affairs at Scottish Water, said: “If last winter is anything to go by, homeowners, landlords and businesses around the country need to take early action to protect their properties and their pockets this year.

“Something as simple as insulating pipes can have a positive impact on safeguarding homes and workplaces. And reducing the amount of hot water you use, like taking two minutes off your shower, can also help save money too.

“We’re hoping the launch of our six crucial tips and tricks will put Scotland’s properties in a better place as the days get considerably colder.”

Now, Scottish Water has shared its top tips to help the public prepare for sub-zero temperatures and to prevent problems such as burst pipes, flooding and water leakages – and the inconvenience and expense that come with them.

Scottish Water’s six top tips for winter safety are:

  1. Protect your pipes

When temperatures fall below zero, water in pipes expands as it freezes. It then contracts as the temperature rises, which can cause pipes to crack or burst. Insulating pipes and water tanks is one of the simplest and cheapest things that can be done to help protect properties from the cold.

  1. Locate your stop valve

If pipes do freeze or burst, you must find and turn off your stop valve immediately. It is often under a sink or near the hot water system. If in doubt, check with a local, licensed plumber.

  1. Warm yourself, not the room

Stay cosy with hot water bottles and drinks, but only boil what you need – a full mug boils faster than a full kettle.

  1. Save on energy bills

Shorter showers can reduce energy bills and save water, which is a win for you and our planet. Try taking just two minutes off your shower and save up to £130 off your annual energy bill*.

  1. Avoid blocks and floods

Stovies, soups and stews are great winter warmers for this time of year. But don’t pour fats, oils or grease down the sink – when they cool, they congeal and cause blockages in your pipes, which could lead to flooding. Why not make your own ‘gunk pot’ – www.yourwateryourlife.co.uk/homemade-gunk-pots/

  1. Save water and money

Using a dishwasher or washing machine on its eco setting can save you money on energy and save water – which is good for the planet. Washing full loads make sense too, getting your money’s worth out of each cycle. 

Brian Lironi, Director of Corporate Affairs at Scottish Water, said: “Winter can be an expensive time of year, so it makes sense to save on your energy bills by using less water. Water is always worth saving at any time of year and making small lifestyle or business changes can do just that.

“We want everyone to be as prepared as possible to minimise winter’s impact. We want to work with our customers – whether they’re householders or businesses – to ensure we are all ready for cold weather.”

Publicly owned Scottish Water will be visiting communities as part of a winter roadshow, giving in-person advice to customers. Drop in events will be held in Newton Mearns, Stirling, Rutherglen, Dundee, Aberdeen and Inverness throughout November and December.

Details on the events can be found here: 

https://www.yourwateryourlife.co.uk/events/

Lothian charities encouraged to safeguard donations and resources during Fraud Awareness Week

With Charity Fraud Awareness Week taking place between 27th November and 1st December, Ansvar, a leading specialist insurer for the charity, not-for-profit and faith sectors, is raising awareness about how organisations across The Lothians can be proactive to protect their assets, reputation, and beneficiaries.

The week serves as a vital initiative to promote understanding about the serious issue of fraud within the charitable sector. From deceptive grant applications to cyber-attacks, and individuals posing as suppliers with ill intentions, fraudulent activities can severely impact resources and reputations.

Sam Ward, Risk & Compliance Consultant at Ansvar, commented: “Charities and not-for-profit organisations play a crucial role in our society and must protect themselves against the nefarious tactics of fraudsters. Preventing charity fraud is not only about protecting financial assets but also maintains the crucial trust needed for the ongoing support of the public and donors.

“Charity Fraud Awareness Week serves as a timely reminder to be vigilant and take proactive steps to preserve valuable resources. We are supporting the work it does to raise awareness and highlight good practice. By providing practical information, we can help charitable organisations protect their assets and continue to make a difference.”

Ansvar’s key strategies that charities and not-for-profit organisations can implement to help protect themselves against fraud are:

Protect assets: Safeguarding physical cash and securing online transactions are paramount. Be aware of the risks in terms of financial transactions and implement strong internal controls to mitigate those risks.

Screen personnel: Ensure the right people are on board, from employees to suppliers. Implement comprehensive vetting procedures for staff and suppliers to identify potential risks.

Train staff: Educate staff about the tell-tale signs of fraud, such as common spelling errors in communication, unusual communication tones, or unexpected urgent requests from unknown sources.

Regularly assess risks: Conduct risk assessments to identify vulnerable areas within an organisation. Knowing where potential risks lie allows charities to implement safeguards and allocate responsibilities appropriately. Multiple individuals should oversee high-risk areas, such as finances, to create a robust system of checks and balances. Ansvar’s online risk assessment guide for charities may help.

Have adequate insurance: Having the right insurance is crucial. Ensure a policy covers the specific risks an organisation faces and be aware of any exclusions.

Ansvar’s Sam Ward explains: “Your insurance broker will be able to help you find the right policy for your specific needs. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to seek their guidance.”

Cyber-attacks are also a growing concern for charitable organisations. The increasing sophistication of cyber threats makes it challenging to differentiate between legitimate and malicious communications, especially without proper training and processes in place. Charities must invest in cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and maintain the trust of their donors.

Sam Ward underscores the importance of these measures:

“Fraud, including cyber-attacks, is a very real threat. Charity Fraud Awareness Week is a reminder for charities to fortify their defences against deceptive activities, and we are encouraging charitable and not-for-profit organisations to take proactive measures to protect themselves.

“By implementing practical steps, charities can continue their invaluable work and ensure that funds entrusted to them are used for their intended purposes.”

NHS 24: Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies need to be assessed and treated quickly to avoid the risk of permanent damage they include:

🔹abscess and swellings in and around the mouth

🔹bleeding

🔹trauma such as a knocked out a tooth

If you’re registered with a dentist and think you have a dental emergency during the in hours period, phone your dental practice.

If you’re not registered with a dentist follow the advice on NHS inform – https://nhs24.info/dental-emergencies

If you think you’ve a dental emergency during the out of hours period phone the 111 service.

Chalmers Dental Centre*
3 Chalmers Street, Edinburgh EH3 9EW  Tel: 0131 536 4800.

Dental triage and advice service, Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm.
Dental treatment service, Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.

*Please note, Chalmers is not a walk-in service. If you require an urgent appointment, you must call the number.

Howl-oween: Guide Dogs prepare puppies for spooky season

As Halloween approaches, charity Guide Dogs is highlighting the importance of preparing puppies ahead of the big day, with Halloween festivities exposing young dogs to many potentially overwhelming new experiences.

Puppies are naturally curious but can become fearful when confronted with unfamiliar situations. Early socialisation helps dogs to build confidence and adapt to new situations, making them more able to handle situations calmly.

All guide dogs are carefully socialised throughout their time as puppies before undertaking  comprehensive 6-month training programmes once fully grown. If they are successful in their training, they become trusted companions, helping people with sight loss live active, independent, and full lives. 

The sight loss charity recently hosted a Halloween socialisation afternoon for a litter of seven five-week old prospective guide dog puppies, exposing them to new and unusual objects they might encounter during spooky season from pumpkins, to fancy dress and ghostly decorations. 

As well as being alert to new and potentially scary experiences, the charity is also encouraging new puppy owners to be extra vigilant of what their four-legged pals are eating at this tempting time of year, as Halloween typically sees a surge in dogs getting hold of sweet treats, such as chocolate, which is poisonous to dogs. 

To help get your puppy Halloween ready and avoid them getting spooked, tricked or freaked this Halloween, Hannah Wright, National Dog Training Lead from Guide Dogs reveals the charity’s top tips: 

1.    Walk your dog earlier in the day, before any trick-or-treaters are out on the streets. Plenty of exercise will also likely mean your dog is more relaxed and calmer in the evening if there are strange-looking visitors or noises outside.

2.   If you know your dog may struggle when the areas around your house are busier, plan ahead and create some soothing enrichment activities you can do with them at home if they wish to.

3.   If you have children coming to your home for sweets, make sure your dog has a cosy quiet den well away from the front door. You can always leave a bowl outside on your front step with a sign to stop people knocking or ringing the doorbell. If you are not open to trick-or-treaters, make sure the front of your house is dark.

4.   If your dog is frightened by someone in a costume or mask or struggles to recognise a family member when they are dressed up, don’t force them to interact. Halloween can be confusing – it’s best to remove strange accessories if it makes your dog feel more comfortable.

5.   And leave the costumes for the humans. Dogs should not be dressed up in Halloween outfits, as they may find this a stressful experience. Such costumes can be hot, irritating or limit your dog’s movement.

6.   The candle inside a jack-o’-lantern can be very dangerous; never leave a lit candle alone, and never have them on the floor when you have children or dogs present.

7.   Keep all Halloween sweets and chocolate well out of reach, and make sure any visiting children know they are not to share any of their treats with pets. Chocolate, raisins and the sweetener Xylitol are all toxic to dogs, and ingesting plastic wrappers or foil can cause issues too.

To support the charity, enrich your dog’s life and receive treats for you and your four-legged friend, subscribe to Good Dog! at: 

https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/good-dog

Avoid acorns and conkers this autumn – vet’s warning to pet owners

AUTUMN is upon us! It’s the season for muddy woodland walks and enjoying the delights this time of year has to offer.

The trees will shed, and you’ll find yourself kicking through piles of crunchy golden leaves on walks. Tree seeds will also ripen and fall, and you’ll find heaps of acorns and shiny conkers on the ground.

Although autumnal walks with your dog can be beautiful, it’s important to be aware of the seasonal dangers that could be harmful to them.

PDSA Vet Lynne James says: “Acorns and conkers perfectly signify the seasons changing, and whilst we may enjoy collecting or playing with them, don’t forget that they can be a danger for our pets if they’re swallowed.

“Thankfully, the bitter taste stops most pets eating them, however they can be tempting to play with and some owners enjoy throwing conkers for pets to catch without realising the risks.

“They can easily swallow them, causing tummy upsets or even a potentially life-threatening blockage of their throat or intestines. Not forgetting they do also contain toxins, which can be harmful to pets.

“If your pet is showing signs of choking on an acorn or conker, this is when pet first aid can become a life-saver. We would advise pet owners to download our free pet first aid guide and learn a few very basic steps to help protect your pets.”

What to do if your pet is choking

“A choking pet will usually have difficulty breathing, make choking sounds, might paw at their mouth and you might see their lips, gums and tongue turning blue.

“Although panic can be a natural reaction in an emergency, try to keep yourself and your pet calm. If they are choking and conscious, try to gently open their mouth to look for something that’s stuck. If you can see a blockage in their mouth, you can use tweezers from your pet first aid kit, or a strong pen to remove it. Always take care when putting anything in your pet’s mouth and never use your fingers as they may panic and could bite you by accident.

“If you can’t remove it and your pet is collapsed and unconscious, lay your pet on their side and place both hands on the side of your pet’s rib cage. Then push quickly and firmly or strike the rib cage with the flat of your hand three to four times – the idea is to push air and the object out of their lungs.

“If you are still unable to dislodge the object, call your vet straight away for an emergency appointment.

“Contact the vet even if you successfully remove the blockage or if your pet clears the object but is still coughing.

Acorns

“Acorns contain a toxin that if ingested, can upset your pet’s stomach, and make them sick. Although rare, if eaten in large amounts, acorns can even cause kidney and liver failure. It’s actually unripe, green acorns that are more poisonous than brown ones, but all parts of the oak tree are poisonous if eaten!

Conkers

“Conkers contain a mixture of toxic compounds which may cause signs of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhoea and collapse. They do have a bitter taste that puts most pets off from eating a lot of them, however if consumed in large amounts, conkers can cause more serious effects, and in some rare cases, can even be deadly.

“It’s important to know what signs to look out for, should your pet get their paws on acorns or conkers and consume them. Signs of illness will usually show within a few hours following chewing or ingestion, but can be delayed for up to a couple of days. The most common signs include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Restlessness
  • Collapsing

“Should your pet show any of the above, or other unusual signs, it could be an indication that they are unwell. Always seek advice from your Vet as soon as possible.”

For more guidance on keeping pets safe this autumn, head to PDSA’s website: www.pdsa.org.uk/poisons-and-hazards