Police repeat telephone banking scam warning
Police are continuing to warn people to be on their guard against telephone fraudsters trying to obtain bank cards or account details.
The warning follows new incidents where people have been targeted by callers claiming to be a police officer from London.
Chief Inspector Andy Milne said today four such calls had been reported this week in Shropshire – and in three instances, the caller claimed to be a police officer from Hammersmith.
“The caller’s usual ploy is to say a man has been arrested with a cloned card which has compromised their bank card or account.
“Fortunately, the message is getting through and people are far more aware now that fraudsters are phoning up in an attempt to persuade people to divulge their bank details.
“Usually, they say bank accounts have been compromised and the person needs to immediately report the matter to their bank to open a new account. But the caller does not put the phone down their end and when the victim attempts to call their bank a few minutes later, they are unwittingly speaking to the fraudster pretending to be a bank employee.
“These fraudsters can be very persuasive and usually target elderly or vulnerable people. However, recent publicity has helped make people more aware and fewer are actually falling victim. However, everyone needs to remain vigilant and should never divulge personal financial details over the phone to anyone calling them.
“Should they receive calls urging them to contact their bank, call the police and if you do contact your bank for reassurance, use a different phone in case the fraudster has kept the line open waiting to intercept your call.”
In the past, victims have had their bank accounts emptied or the offender has instructed the victim to withdraw money from their account and arranges for a taxi or courier to collect the cash or their bank cards for “safe keeping” and further investigation by the alleged fraud team.
Chief Inspector Milne added: “The police investigate all reports but it is absolutely vital people are aware what’s happening and do not give personal or financial details to strangers who either phone them or come to their home.”
