Warning over telephone scammers

The OIC Trading Standards department is warning of a spate of scam telephone calls attempting to acquire personal bank details.

The callers attempt to “verify” card/account details, claiming they are needed to make a bank charge refund. They use the account holder’s name,address and date of birth, along with some of the numbers on bank cards, making the call seem plausible.

They typically ask for confirmation of other card details, with those who refuse to pass on information being told the cards will be cancelled or the account frozen.

OIC trading standards officer Alison Campbell said: “Your bank will never ask you to confirm account numbers and password details over the phone or by email – they will ask you security questions to verify your identity. If you are concerned that you may have unwittingly given out information regarding your bank account, you should contact your bank immediately for guidance.”

Trading Standards is also urging consumers not to enter into any form of conversation with any suspected scam callers, as they can be very persistent and may call back on numerous occasions.