SILHILLIANS are being urged to stay alert to potential scams following a spate of attempted fraud attacks reported in the borough.
HSBC UK say staff at its Solihull branch have seen an increase in customers reporting having fallen victim to fraud, with spurious emails and text messages a common theme.
The bank say there are five types of scams being reported, which are:
Courier scam where the victim the victim typically receives an email from a well-known courier firm or Royal Mail, claiming they have been unable to deliver a parcel and the victim needs to pay a redelivery fee.
Queried transaction the fraudster poses as the bank calls to advise money has been withdrawn from the customer’s account and asks if it was a genuine transaction.
Police scam where fraudsters pose as police stating bank staff are being investigated for card cloning.
Vaccine Scam fraudsters are send out text messages claiming to offer the chance to apply for a coronavirus jab and need bank details to confirm identity, often with a website link.
The NHS will never ask you for bank details or to pay for a vaccine.
Romance Scam the fraudsters set up fake profiles on dating websites, apps and social media to appeal to singletons sensitive side and then start asking for money.
James Hogg, HSBC UK’s Local Director in Warwickshire, Coventry & Solihull, said: “Sadly, fraudsters are criminals trying to trick you out of your money.
“They pose as trustworthy organisations to encourage you to hand over personal or financial information.
“We see a lot of scams where customers are told their account has been compromised, or the bank can’t be trusted, and to move their money to a ‘safe account’.
“This is not genuine and your bank will never ask you to do this.
“Our advice to people is to ‘Take Five’ and to stop and think – does this feel right?
“Your bank will never ask you to share passwords or PIN numbers, or to move your money.
“If in doubt, call your bank on the number shown on the back of your debit card.”
HSBC UK has issued the following advise to those who are contacted out of the blue via a call, email or text message:
Stop and think – don’t click, don’t reply. Be prepared to stop
Look for warning signs – check details carefully. Does it feel right?
Seek guidance – contact someone you trust, such as a friend or family member
Proceed with caution – use another device and contact the company directly on a number you know to be genuine
