POLICE & TRADING STANDARDS WARN OVER AUTOMATED CALL MASTERCARD SCAM

The unsuspecting caller then asks the victim to press a number on their phone which then connects them to a live scammer who then attempts to gain remote access to the victims computer and may even install online banking for you which gives the thieves all they need to steal your money.

The number this time began 0191 123, giving the impression it is from the UK – do not respond and hang up the phone.

Trading Standards have warned not to give personal or financial information to anyone who calls or emails out of the blue.

It has been advised to wait at least 30 minutes before ringing your bank using a number you have found yourself and if possible, call from a different phone. The scammers have been known to keep the call connected at the other end, always check for a dial tone before proceeding.

You should never share you bank details with anyone, especially so your pin number and the 3-digit CVS code on the back of your card.

Katy Worobec, managing director of economic crime at UK Finance, said:

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"There has been a spike in cases over the past week involving automated calls from fraudsters pretending to be from your bank. It's crucial that people remain vigilant and question any phone calls out of the blue, even if they state there has been fraud on your account.

"Fraudsters may already have some information about you, so don't take this as confirmation that their approach is genuine. Never give out any personal information if you are at all suspicious. Instead take five to stop and think, and then contact your bank directly on a number that you can trust such as the one on their official website."

 

Please share this information with friends, relatives and neighbours – especially the more vulnerable among us.

Report to actionfraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk