Police warning over cold call scammers

POLICE have issued a warning after a rise in cold call fraudsters who have tricked vulnerable people out of thousands of pounds.

South Yorkshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit issued the warning after an increase in reports of cold callers posing as officials from timeshare and holiday properties.

The unit is backing the national Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign which offers advice to help prevent email, phone-based and online fraud, where criminals impersonate organisations.

Financial fraud protect officer Andrew Foster said: “These fraudsters do not care about their victims – they are on the hunt to get as much money as possible through these cold calling methods.

“Sadly, we have seen an increase of reports of fraud calls, where people have unfortunately lost thousands of pounds.

“We are asking residents to take five and stop and think before sharing any personal information.

“If you suspect the person phoning you isn’t who they say they are, hang up the phone and if possible, call the company or organisation on a known number using a different phone.

“Please remember that genuine officials will never ask you to reveal personal information or transfer money over the phone.

“It's not always easy to spot a fraudulent call.

“For example, fraudsters can spoof phone numbers, so it appears that you are genuinely being called by your bank or a government department.

“Additionally, they may already have some of your information from a previous data breach, which might make you think the call is genuine.”

For more fraud prevention advice visit South Yorkshire Police's dedicated webpage.

f you think you have been a victim of a fraud, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or go online to www.actionfraud.police.uk