Warning over Visa and Mastercard scam

Anyone duped could lose between 300 and 497 in the fraud.

The scam begins when a caller saying they are from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA.

The caller says that the person’s card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and that the call is to verify this.

The intended victim is then asked if they have purchased an Anti-Telemarketing Device for 497.99 from a marketing company based in London?

When the person says no the caller says that they will be issued a credit to their account.

This scam then charged victims from 297 to 497 - just under the 500 purchase pattern that flags most cards.

The victim is then given an 0800 number plus six digit number to ring and told to ask for Security.,

They are also asked for the last three digits on the back of their card.

People who receive a similar call are advised that they should not provide any personal, or security information.

If anyone has fallen victim to this scam, they should report it immediately to local police and their bank or card issuer.