Baz Stancombe and Praise

It sounds like you've been through a very difficult experience with Baz Stancombe and Praise, losing a significant amount of money to their threats and scams. This can be incredibly stressful, but know that you're not alone and there are steps you can take to recover.

Here's what you should do immediately:

• Stop all communication. Don't respond to any further emails, calls, or messages from Baz Stancombe, Praise, or anyone associated with them. Blocking their contact information is a good idea to prevent further harassment.
• Report the scam. Report the incident to the Action Fraud hotline at 0300 123 2040 or online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ They can provide further guidance and support.
• Gather evidence. Save any emails, texts, or online messages from Baz Stancombe and Praise as evidence. This documentation can be crucial if you decide to pursue legal action.
• Consider a credit report freeze (optional): Contacting the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a freeze on your credit report can prevent them from opening new accounts in your name.

Unique Tip for This Scam: The scammers listed an extensive list of social media platforms. This could indicate they're targeting people across a wide range of online spaces. In the future, be cautious of anyone who contacts you across multiple platforms, especially if they make sudden promises or financial requests.

While getting your money back may be difficult, you can take steps to protect yourself from future scams:

• Be wary of unsolicited contact. If someone you don't know reaches out to you with promises of easy money or investment opportunities, it's likely a scam.
• Never share personal or financial information with strangers online. This includes bank account details, social security numbers, or passwords.
• Beware of threats and intimidation. Scammers often use fear tactics to pressure you into making quick decisions. Don't let them rush you.
• Do your research. Before investing or sending money to anyone you don't know well, research the company or individual. Look for online reviews and complaints.
• Trust your gut. If something feels off about an offer or situation, it probably is. Don't be afraid to walk away.

Important Resources: Here are some helpful resources for learning about and reporting scams:

• The National Cyber Security Centre (https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/)
• Citizens Advice (https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/)
• The Money Advice Service (https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en)

Remember, you're not to blame for falling victim to this scam. Scammers are very good at manipulating people. The most important thing is to learn from this experience and take steps to protect yourself in the future. There are also resources available to help you deal with the emotional impact of being scammed. Don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional for support.