Be Aware Latest Scam

Be Aware Latest Scams – Free tools to stop scammers

Scams are constantly evolving, so it pays to stay one step ahead. But you don’t need to download expensive software to protect yourself – many of the most useful anti-scam tools are already built into your phone and online accounts.

A few small changes will make a big difference. We run you through how to use these free tools and reduce your risk of being scammed.

Try these quick fixes

10 things every smartphone owner should do now

Smartphones help us communicate, make payments on the move and store sensitive data. As a result, learning how to secure your device against threats is crucial.

It takes just a few minutes to make some tweaks to your device settings that will have a huge impact. Our tech expert, Tom Morgan, has rounded up some tips to keep your phone secure.

If you’d benefit from 1-to-1 help with your smartphone or other tech products, you can join Which? Tech Support and chat to our friendly experts on the phone or by email, as often as you need. Find out more about the support on offer and get 50% off a Tech annual membership for the first year. Offer ends 6 April.

Essential smartphone tips

How to use public wi-fi safely

Public wi-fi hotspots are convenient when you’re out and about, but be careful to keep your data safe. For starters, you’ll need to be wary of nosy onlookers peering at your screen if you’re in a bustling café. But there are plenty of other ways to keep your information private.

We share eight security tips for phone and laptop users, including how to check whether a network is safe to join.

Log on and stay safe

Scam sharer tool

There’s an easy way to make us aware of scams directly with our scam sharer tool. Tell us your experiences of phishing emails, fake texts, cold calls and other types of fraud.

Scam sharer tool

Stay safe,

Which? Scam Alert Team

P.S. Please share this information with your friends, family and neighbours – anyone who may find it helpful. Alternatively, they can sign up here to receive this directly to their inbox.

……………………………………………

Bettys drops bombshell change in Harrogate — and it could spell the end of its famous queues

It’s the queue everyone knows.

Tourists photograph it. Locals complain about it. And for many, it’s simply part of visiting Harrogate.

But now, Bettys has made a shock announcement that could change everything.

The move that will split opinion

For the first time in its history, the iconic tearoom is introducing daytime reservations—meaning customers can book ahead and skip the queue entirely.

The change launches on 30 March 2026 and applies to The Spindler Gallery inside the Harrogate branch, as well as Bettys Ilkley.

And yes… it means you could walk straight in.

“About time” — or the end of a tradition?

For years, visitors have queued down Parliament Street just to get a table.

Some love the atmosphere. Others have walked away.

Now, Bettys is giving people a choice:

• Join the queue as always
• Or bypass it completely with a reservation

It’s a move that’s likely to divide loyal fans.

The reason behind the change

Bettys says it’s responding to customers who have been put off by long waits.

Director of Operations Nicky Sellers said, “We recognise that queues can be a barrier for some customers and want to offer a Bettys experience that suits everyone.”

The hidden room most people never see

Those who book won’t just skip the queue—they’ll be taken to one of Bettys’ most exclusive spaces.

The Spindler Gallery, tucked away beneath the main café, is home to the largest collection of Spindler wood artworks in the world—a detail many visitors completely miss.

What you need to know before you go

• Start date: 30 March 2026
• Where: Harrogate (Spindler Gallery) + Ilkley
• Booking: Online only
• Cut-off: 9am on the day
• Walk-ins: Still allowed

One thing is clear…

Betty’s isn’t getting rid of its famous queues.

But for the first time ever, you might not have to stand in one.

And that changes everything.