Elderly warned over phone scams

Trading standard officers urged people to give a straight “No” to unsolicited callers after a rise in reports about unwanted calls.

Official research figures reveal that about 80 per cent of people receiving cold calls are over 65. 

Rotherham Borough Council officers said they were aware of a recent rise locally in the numbers of scam calls.

A spokeswoman said: “Remember it is your phone and genuine telephone marketing companies and organisations expect a large proportion of calls to be ended with a polite ‘No’.

“Individuals should be very wary of all calls from persons and companies that they have not had any previous dealings with.

“Genuine callers of this kind will never ask for bank account details and as a rule no-one should give these details over the telephone.”

Residents should be wary of possible fraudsters, never provide personal details and follow the general rule “If what the caller is telling you seems too good to be true, it usually is.”

To report possible scam, calls contact the Citizens Advice Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.

If the caller has said that someone will call at your address in person, and you feel afraid or threatened by this, phone the police on 101 or 0114 2202020.

To stop unwanted telephone calls contact The Telephone Preference Service for free on 0845 4070 0707  or online at www.tpsonline.org.uk  This free service will stop almost all unwanted calls.