Police in Moray and Aberdeenshire have issued another warning for the public to be wary of telephone scams after a north-east resident lost £15,000.
Fraudsters pretending to represent banks are cold-calling advising customers that their bank accounts have been compromised. The fraudster instructs the customer to hang up and call their bank, giving the impression that the call is genuine.
However, the scammers keep the telephone line open by not hanging up at their end – so when the victim dials and things they are talking to their bank, they are in fact talking to another scammer.
In the Aberdeenshire incident the unwitting victim was told that as £15,000 had been accidentally transferred into their bank account they would need to return it.
Constable Kev Marron from Police Scotland Crime Reduction Unit said: “We would advise that if you are telephoned by anyone pertaining to be from your bank to telephone your bank back especially if it involves transferring money, providing or confirming your bank details.
“Always look up your bank’s telephone number and do not use a number the caller provides. Furthermore, if you do decide to ring back and verify the call it is advisable to do so on a different phone line, like another landline or on your mobile.
“If this isn’t possible, leave at least 30 minutes between receiving the suspect call and making a new call.
“Some scammers keep the phone line open and will reconnect as soon as you dial a new number; continuing the scam by pretending to be a different person from the bank.
“Always be suspicious if someone reporting to be from your bank or any organisation requests you to transfer money, asks for your bank or personal details. Above all, if there is the slightest doubt, attend in person at your branch.”
If anybody has any concerns regarding telephone fraud they are asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.