Bath & North East Somerset Council is warning people to be wary of telephone cold callers who claim to be from their insurance provider as it may be a scam.
The Council’s Trading Standards team has received reports of residents being phoned by cold callers who claim that an adjustment needs to be made to their household insurance policy, or offering them a cheaper deal.
The caller confirms the first four digits of the consumer’s bank card and then asks the consumer to confirm the remaining digits.
When the caller is challenged by the consumer and is asked to put the request in writing, the caller hangs up.
The caller is currently operating from a London number – area code 02038.
Cllr Martin Veal (Conservative, Bathavon North), Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “Each year many people fall victim to fraudsters – sometimes operating from overseas – who are intent on stealing their personal and financial information.
“Scams take many different forms but a common route which fraudsters use to contact victims is the cold telephone call.
“If you receive an unsolicited or unexpected telephone call be on your guard as it may be a scam.
“The fraudsters sound convincing, professional and may claim to represent a business you know, for example your bank or an official organisation.
“They may pressure you to act quickly, either because they want to trick you into believing you will miss a golden opportunity to make money or that you will suffer some sort of loss.
“Never give personal or financial information out to anyone who cold calls you on the telephone. Be cautious and if in doubt, hang up.”
If you receive a scam telephone call, you can report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 20 40.
You can also report it to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 for referral to Trading Standards for investigation.
If you were duped into giving your bank, building society, credit card or debit card details, or your pin number contact your bank, building society or finance provider immediately and seek their advice.
If you have been the victim of a fraud they may be able to help.
