Advice issued after Newtownabbey pensioner conned out of £400

Newtownabbey residents are being urged to be vigilant by Northern Ireland Direct after an elderly woman was recently scammed by a male claiming to be a handyman.
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Commenting on social media, a Scam Wise NI spokesperson said: “Police Service of Northern Ireland have informed us an older lady in the Newtownabbey area was approached by a male whilst she was out in her garden.

“He claimed to be a handyman ‍who could carry out some jobs on her property and even provided her with a flyer detailing his services and the associated cost.

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“After some discussion, the male talked the lady into paying a £400 deposit, which she did, and he was never seen again! The lady tried contacting the telephone number on the flyer, but it’s not a recognised number.

Residents are being advised to be vigilant.Residents are being advised to be vigilant.
Residents are being advised to be vigilant.

“Please be wary if approached like this. Do your research and make sure all tradespeople are reputable and legit.”

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