Telephone scam warning

The warning comes after police have received a number of reports from across Northern Ireland, about householders being contacted by bogus callers.

Head of Crime Prevention, Inspector David Connery explained: "These calls are not genuine. Utility companies, bank, credit card and other financial institutions will never telephone and ask for confirmation of your details.

"Most companies have a system in place whereby customers will have previously agreed a password or some security questions for use in telephone transactions and this is what they will use to confirm your identity."

He added: “These criminals are inventive and can be very convincing, but each scam is designed to tempt you to drop your guard with a seemingly attractive offer. Don't fall for it! Stop and think - If you haven't recently challenged your utility bills or bank fees - why expect an offer of a refund, particularly over the phone with nothing in writing? 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?”

Always guard your personal and banking details and never disclose them to any unauthorised person. If you have received a call 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.