Warning over scam caller targeting residents and demanding money

A warning has been issued by North Wales Police and Trading Standards about a scam phone call targeting residents in north east Wales.

The bogus caller poses as a representative from the ‘Inland Revenue’ and demand payment for ‘unpaid taxes’ from the victim. They then threaten arrest to the victim unless the money is paid.

Police say that over the past several weeks a number of residents in the Denbighshire area in particular have been targeted by the scammers.

North Wales Police Designing Out Crime Officer, David Williams said: “The nature of the message is always that the victim owes money for unpaid taxes. There is then a warning that they will be arrested unless the money is paid.”

“This is a telephone scam and under no circumstances should anyone enter into conversation with the caller, let alone provide any personal details. If you receive a recorded message asking you to ring a particular phone number, don’t call them back.

“Never follow their instructions. You will not face any court proceedings as claimed by the scam callers.”

The following advice has been issued by North Wales Police:

– If you receive a telephone call from someone asking to for money 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 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.

Anyone concerned about such calls can speak to Trading Standards on 03454 040505 (Welsh language) 03454 040506 (English language).