Police warning on phone scam artists

POLICE IN Lisburn are urging householders to be cautious when dealing with unsolicited texts, calls, emails or letters offering to release money, refund fees, pay lottery wins or giveaway holidays, or other prizes.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Oct 2012, 15:22 BST

The warning comes after some local people reported being contacted with offers of money that could only be accessed by paying a fee upfront, sending a money transfer or supplying banking details.

Police are reminding householders that scammers are inventive and can be very convincing, however, each scam has just one purpose - to tempt you to drop your guard. The golden rule is that if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is - don’t fall for it! .

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“If you haven’t recently challenged your bills or bank fees then why expect an offer of a refund?” said a police spokesperson.

“If you haven’t entered a competition for a holiday or if you haven’t entered a foreign lottery, then how would it be possible for you to have won a prize?

“If you haven’t inquired about PPI payments or personal injury compensation, then why would someone be contacting you offering to pay it? It is also highly unusual for any legitimate company or organisation to demand a fee in order to release a prize.”

Police have urged householders to guard personal and banking details and never disclose them to any unauthorised person. Your bank will never contact you asking for account numbers, passwords or PINs.

If you have received a contact of this kind or are concerned by the intent of a financial promise, report it to police on the non-emergency telephone 0845 600 8000.

Related topics:PoliceLisburn