Woman narrowly escapes £200 scam call

The woman was contacted by someone claiming to be from a PPI (payment protection insurance) company who told her she was in line for a payment of more than £2,000 - but she would have to pay £200 to get the money.

When the woman contacted the PPI company she had dealt with previously she was told no-one had been in touch about such a payment.

Since the report, police have issues a warning to people to be wary of callers who may ask for money or personal details.

A spokesman said, “Police would advise members of the public to always err on the side of caution with any text, call, email or letter asking for payment or personal details in order to release money, refund fees, pay lottery wins or supply a holiday, giveaway or service.

“Scammers are inventive and can be very convincing, but each scam is designed to tempt you to drop your guard. Police would stress that if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is - don’t fall for it!

“Stop and think - if you haven’t recently challenged your bills or bank fees then why expect an offer of a refund, particularly over the phone with nothing in writing? If you haven’t entered a competition for a holiday or if you haven’t entered a foreign lottery, then how would it be possible for you to have won a prize? If you haven’t inquired about PPI payments or insurance following a car accident then why would someone be contacting you about it?

“Always guard your personal and banking details and never disclose them to any unauthorised person. Also, be extremely cautious before releasing any kind of ‘fee’ in response to an unsolicited text, call, email or letter.”

If you have received a contact of this kind or are concerned by the intent of a financial promise, report it to police on the non-emergency telephone 0845 600 8000.