Police issue scam warning

The advice follows reports that a business in the Newry area was approached on behalf of someone purporting to be from an Emergency Services Magazine requesting they buy advertising space.

A police spokesperson said: “This is a scam in an attempt to obtain money rather than a legitimate approach.

“Genuine magazines, including those that cater for the interests of police officers, will not hesitate to tell you who they are and where they can be contacted.

“Our advice is that you should never disclose financial details or make commitments to pay by credit card to cold callers. Reputable organisations will give you the chance to think about your response.

“Do not let anyone pressurise you into making a commitment. Take your time in coming to a decision. After all, it’s your money, so think carefully about whether or not you want the advertising exposure that is offered, and also check to see how many editions are printed and where they will be circulated.

“The important issue is to be able to distinguish the genuine from the bogus. It’s important to be cautious, even if the caller claims to represent a genuine organisation, such as one of the emergency services or a charity.”

Useful tips include:

• Always note the time and date of any call and the name of the caller

• Ask for an address and a landline telephone number

• Establish exactly who the caller is acting for. If it is a charity, ask for the Charity Commission registered number

• Clarify exactly what you are getting for your money

• Ask for clear details of the publication, how many copies will be circulated and where they will distributed

• Ask to see a copy of the publication

• Never agree to an advertisement on the first call just to get rid of the caller.

Ask for time to think about it, and say you will call back if you are interested

Pay close attention to any invoice that you receive for advertisements you are supposed to have placed. Some fraudsters send out invoices in the hope that a busy accounts department will not query it.

Quite often, fraudsters are hesitant about giving their names or telephone numbers. If someone will not do that, it gives grounds for suspicion.

If you think you have been a victim of an advertising scam, contact your local police.

Anyone who has been approached in a similar nature, or needs advice from a Crime Prevention Officer should contact your local Police. The telephone number to ring is 0845 600 8000.