Police Warn of Telephone Scam Targeting Residents, Thousands Lost
Residents in Lanarkshire have been targeted by a telephone scam, resulting in thousands of pounds being lost by unsuspecting victims. Local police have issued a warning after receiving six reports of this scam in recent months, urging the public to be vigilant and take precautions to avoid falling victim.
The scam involves individuals receiving a call from someone claiming to be from a bank or financial institution, who then informs them of fraudulent activity on their accounts. To verify the caller’s authenticity, they provide a number for the victim to call back. However, this number is controlled by the fraudsters themselves.
Once victims call back, the scammers convince them to withdraw money from their accounts, assuring them that it is necessary for a supposed investigation. The victims are then instructed to hand over the cash to a third party for safekeeping. Sadly, this money never reaches any legitimate authorities, and the victims are left out of pocket.
Detective Inspector Jamie Campbell of CID has emphasized the importance of raising awareness about these scams and urged the public to remain cautious. These criminals excel at impersonation, often posing as trustworthy individuals or even the police themselves. Therefore, it is essential not to blindly trust the caller ID displayed on your phone as it can be manipulated and is not a confirmation of a caller’s identity.
Inspector Campbell advises anyone receiving a call from their bank or financial institution to take extra precautions. If in doubt, it is advisable to hang up and independently verify the legitimacy of the call by contacting the official phone number provided on the back of their bank card or through official paperwork. Genuine callers will understand this hesitation and will not pressure individuals into divulging personal details or withdrawing money.
To report any incidents or provide information that may assist the police in apprehending the scammers, residents are urged to contact their local authorities through the non-emergency hotline, 101.
These telephone scams serve as a reminder that anyone can be deceived, underscoring the need for vigilance and awareness. By staying informed and following the advice of law enforcement, individuals can better protect themselves from falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.
In the digital age, where criminals continue to find innovative ways to exploit unsuspecting individuals, it is crucial to prioritize personal security. By remaining cautious and adopting a healthy level of skepticism, we can thwart the efforts of these fraudsters and safeguard our hard-earned money.
