A few days ago we received a communication from our local Police Service warning of a telephone scam involving fraudsters posing as internet service providers.
A fraudster had been telephoning victims to tell them that their modem was not compatible with their computer and that the victim was owed an amount of money by their service provider.
The fraudster then informed the victim that a bigger sum had mistakenly been transferred to the victim's account, which now needed to be repaid.
The Police Service communication reminded residents to be vigilant and included useful advice for how to deal with suspected telephone scammers and fraudsters.
Here is our slightly amended version.
- Put the phone down on someone if you suspect they are a fraudster.
- Be aware that banks never call and ask for your account or card details or ask you to withdraw money or transfer money to another account.
- Never assume a caller is genuine just because they hold some information about you.
- Always be wary of cold callers who suggest you hang up the phone and call them back.
- Never call a suspected fraudster back.
- Remember that it takes two people to terminate a phone call.
- Check that the suspected fraudster is not still on the line before sharing sensitive information with anyone over the phone.
- Ensure the telephone line is clear by using the same phone to call a relative or friend.
- If you can speak to a relative or friend using the same phone then you can be certain that a suspected fraudster is not still on the line.
What if you think you have been conned by a fraudster?
If you think you have been a victim of a scam, contact your bank or card company immediately.
Also report the incident to Action Fraud and the Police using the non-emergency number: 101.
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