Central Bedfordshire Council’s Trading Standards team is warning consumers and small businesses to be aware of a possible text message scam that claims you are entitled to a refund from previously mis-sold loan protection insurance.
We have received a number of reports recently whereby consumers have received a text message on their mobile phone claiming that "Records indicate you are entitled to £xxxx from mis-sold Loan Protection Insurance (PPI). To claim reply YES to this message.". In some instances, consumers who have received this message have never had a loan.
Based on the information provided we believe that this message could possibly be a scam, aiming to obtain personal and financial details. We would advise anyone who receives this message, or similar, to act with extreme caution before considering to reply.
Our advice to consumers and small businesses is that you should never give your details to anybody over the telephone or by text message, unless you are absolutely certain of their intentions. Never be intimidated into making a quick decision. Generally, if you show any interest in the claim being made - on this occasion by replying to the message - you may be identified as a possible target for a future scam attempt. If, at any point, you are unsure as to whether a text message is genuine, do not hesitate to delete it without replying.
If you have any information about suspect rogue traders or would like to report a possible scam please initially contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06, in order so that all relevant regulatory authorities can be notified.
In the meantime, please visit our website www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/bescamaware for advice and guidance on how to spot a scam and how to avoid becoming a victim.
Kind regards
Trading Standards
(Community Safety and Public Protection)
No comments:
Post a Comment