Tax fraud arrests scam
A number of Warwickshire residents have reported bogus phone calls from fraudsters claiming to be HMRC. The callers attempt to scare residents by suggesting they have committed tax fraud and a warrant has been issued for their (the residents) arrest. They then demand the resident pays a fine/tax owed.
Bitcoin investment scams
A Warwickshire resident reported losing over £3000 after being cold called and offered an opportunity to ‘invest’ in Bitcoins via an online platform. The resident transferred the money which was then almost immediately withdrawn by the fraudsters.
Free solar panel ‘health check’
Owners of solar panels are warned to beware of letters and cold calls from bogus/high pressure companies offering solar panel ‘health checks’ that are in reality an opportunity to sell the resident highly priced and unnecessary warranties and additional solar panel equipment.
Bogus BT callers
Attempts are being made by fraudsters to obtain the banking details of Warwickshire residents by making calls falsely claiming to be BT and other telephone service providers. The fraudsters telephone unsuspecting consumers, claiming that their broadband speed is not as fast as it should be and offering them £200 refunds. They then ask for the individuals’ bank details to so they can ‘pay the money in’. In reality, bank details stolen in this way are used for criminal activity.
NEVER provide personal or financial information to people who cold call you, either over the phone or on the doorstep. You can't tell a good trader from a bad one on the doorstep. Don't buy goods/services/investments from cold callers.
Make a scam/rogue trader complaint to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506.
Warwickshire Trading Standards Website Facebook Twitter
Sign up to scam alerts at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/scams
Avoid rogue traders. Use Warwickshire Trading Standards No Rogue Traders Here approved trader scheme
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