Beware of Amazon telephone fraud

RESIDENTS are being warned about an Amazon scam call which is targeting people across South Yorkshire.

South Yorkshire Police said it had become aware of a number of residents who had received calls from criminals claiming to be from Amazon and stating there had been unusual activity on the victim's account.

The fraudster claims the victim owes money to Amazon and aims to trick them into giving the fraudster access to or control of their computer, said a police spokeswoman.

PC Vicki Arrowsmith from the force's Fraud Co-ordination Team said: "Amazon-related scams have been circulating for some time now, but from the reports we have received it appears to be a particular trend in South Yorkshire over the last couple of weeks.

"Once the fraudster has taken control of the victim's computer, they are able to access their bank account and make applications for loans using the victim's details.

"In some cases, the suspect has also informed the victims that they have taken control of their webcam and know their address, adding to their distress.

"It's really important that everyone spreads the word about this scam to prevent anyone else from falling for it."

If you think you have been a victim of this scam, report it to Action Fraud, the national fraud reporting centre via actionfraud.police.uk or you can call 0300 123 2040.