THE PUBLIC are being again being advised to be wary of phone scams after reports that fraudsters are targeting homes in Scotland.
Tayside Police issued the warning after a woman from Arbroath received a call from a female alleging to be from the Ministry of Justice.
The caller, who was described as having an Indian accent, informed the woman that she was entitled to receive a four figure sum of money but in order to receive it, she would have to go to her local Co-op and make a payment to her organisation via Ukash.
The woman was immediately suspicious and reported the incident to the police after hanging up.
Ukash is a system whereby users are able to carry out online transactions without the need for payment cards as all that is required is the voucher’s unique four-digit code.
A representative from Ukash warned consumers against the dangers of cold callers, highlighting that this is a fraud and anyone who does fall victim to a scam will lose their money.
A Tayside Police spokeswoman stated: “While it is common practice to carry out transactions over the phone, we would advise people not to share financial details with a cold caller.
“Personal information should not be shared in such circumstances either – including simple information such as when you may or may not be at home.
“Such callers may be very convincing, but householders must keep in mind the fact that the person at the other end of the line has put time and effort into rehearsing their lines with the hope of catching them out.
“Be suspicious of all such calls and always make every effort to ensure that the person at end of the line is who they claim to be, represent who they claim to represent and are legitimate and reputable.
“If you are unsure, take details of their company so you can check their credentials. You can even take a number with a view to checking out their details and calling the company they say they are from at a later time using a number you have obtained independently.
“Above all else if you have concerns of suspicions hang up and contact the police on 0300 111 2222.”
