This in from Perth and Kinross Community Watch in association with Police Scotland
Victims have reported receiving an automated telephone call telling them their “National Insurance number has been compromised” and in order to fix this and get a new number, the victim needs to “press 1 on their handset to be connected to the caller”.
Once connected to the “caller”, victims are pressured into giving over their personal details in order to receive a new National Insurance number. In reality, they’ve been connected to a criminal who can now use their personal details to commit fraud.
How to protect yourself
If you receive an unexpected phone call, text message or email that asks for your personal or financial details, remember to:
STOP
Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
CHALLENGE
Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
PROTECT
If you have provided personal details to someone over the phone and you now believe this to be a scam, contact your bank, building society and credit card company immediately.
For advice or to report a scam to Trading Standards contact Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 800 9060
Message Sent By
Shirley Duff (Police Scotland, Public Enquiry & Support Assistant, Highland Perthshire)