Telephone Scams

One of our members has brought to our attention the ever increasing problem of telephone scams and has put together some suggested guidelines. We wondered if you might find them helpful:-

These are becoming more regular and more refined so beware.

You will never receive a call from Microsoft or your Internet Service Provider to tell you that you have a problem with your computer or your internet connection.

Equally your Bank would never call you to discuss details of accounts you hold with them.

The vast majority of these scams are run by organised crime syndicates and they are getting more and more sophisticated in their approach.

• Although they originate from abroad if your telephone displays the caller’s number it can appear to come from within the UK.
• Calls from a human being are becoming rarer and most are now recordings.
• These are developing rapidly and can often start by addressing you by name.
• This is a form of social engineering used to lull people into a false sense of security.
• The criminals are also aware that people are more likely to respond to an accent they are used to hearing on a day to day basis.
• The latest calls are often in “UK English”

What to do if you receive a call

• Do not respond in any way, just hang up.
• If you feel that the call may have been genuine call your service provider or bank.
• Do not use call-back, it either won’t connect or you’ll end up speaking to a scammer.
• Do not redial using a number provided by the scam call.
• If you are asked to press a button for more information, generally the number 1, although this will vary, DON’T.
• If you do respond the following scenarios are possible –
• You could end up speaking to a human being who will try to get you to do something on your computer or disclose personal information.
• By responding you could get marked as susceptible and end up receiving even more calls in the future.
• You may end up calling a premium rate number.

We hope the above helps you to stay safe.