Police are warning of a phone scam in which bogus callers claiming to be from people’s bank, a fraud department, or the police themselves.
Photograph: Lindsey LaMont/Unsplash
The fraudsters claim the victim’s bank account has had fraudulent activity, or similar, and they need to urgently transfer their money. If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately and do not provide any of your bank details.
If you have already given your bank details over the phone, or handed your card details to a courier, call your bank straight away. Phone 159 to reach your bank’s fraud department directly.
Also report this to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. Contact Devon and Cornwall Police on 101 or via their website.
There are also reports of scam texts doing the rounds. These can mention a fine, an offer of a discount specific to you, or claim to be someone asking for help. These messages often give a sense of urgency.
Don’t click on any links, and be wary of any contact asking you to make a payment, download an app, or purchase gift cards or vouchers, even if they state they are for family. Call family members to speak with them to check.
You can forward a suspicious text on to 7726 for free to report it. Do not respond to or click any links, and block the number if you can.
