Public warned of scam HMRC and Sky phone calls targeting households

North Wales Police are urging members of the public to be aware of a series of scam phone calls currently doing the rounds.

Recently several victims have received a telephone call from a person purporting to be from HMRC, BT, SKY and TALKTALK, who has advised them that they are due to receive a refund.

Police say the victims have been convinced to log on to their computer and allow remote access. Funds have then been transferred out of the victim’s account. Some people have also been asked to write a cheque or purchase Google Play / iTunes vouchers if they do not bank online.

In some instances the scammers have also been able to transfer funds from the victim’s savings accounts into their current account, which appears to the victim to be a deposit into their bank account. The fraudsters then ask the victim to transfer this money to the fraudster’s account telling the victim that the deposit was made in error.

Financial abuse safeguarding officer DC 2675 Rachel Roberts said: “The people committing these types of fraud are persistent, calling the victims a number of times a day and using different phone numbers.”

“Our advice to the public is not to allow remote access to their computer, give out bank details over the phone or transfer funds out of their accounts before checking with their bank first.”

Police enquiries are ongoing and the following advice is being given:

– If you receive a telephone call from someone asking to arrange transfer of funds or to collect funds from your home address end the call immediately. Visit the North Wales Police public web page and clicking on the fraud information box. Here you will find advice on various types of fraud and a link to Action Fraud (www.actionfraud.police.uk) or call on 0300 123 2040
– Do not give personal details, including banking details to anyone you do not know following unexpected requests for money made either in the street, on the doorstep, over the telephone or internet as these details can be used to steal your identity.
– Beware of cold calls even when the caller appears to have personal information such as your address or bank account details. Legitimate callers will never be offended if you ask to call back in order to confirm their identity. When doing so always use a phone number that you have obtained from previous correspondence or an independent source such as phone book or an official website.

If you want to call your bank, then do so from another telephone or visit your local branch. They can then report the matter to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or www.actionfraud.police.uk