Telephone Scam Warning

frankp57By
Mar-4-2021
Chester Crimewatch
Comments Off on Telephone Scam Warning

And still they keep coming folks. The scams I mean. They are constant aren’t they. John, from Blacon, has yet again been busy in providing us with this vital telephone scam warning message. Thanks again John. Another very useful, informative, scam alert message.

But before we get into the message itself, let’s take a moment to think about these scams. Generally, irrespective of the apparent sophistication of the scam, if such phone calls are not normal, be aware. Ask loads of questions from the outset. Or, another quite simple approach is, don’t answer if you don’t recognise the number. If it is a genuine call, they will leave a message.

Anyway, here’s the important telephone scam alert message from Cheshire Police. And, as ever, spread the word if you can folks. Thank you – much appreciated.

Telephone Scam Warning

“We’ve had an increase in numbers of reports around scams. Please make yourself, friends, and family aware of a current scam: “I received a phone call from BT, informing me that he was disconnecting me because of an unpaid bill. He demanded payment immediately of £31.00 or it would be £ 118.00 to re-connect at a later date.

The guy wasn’t even fazed when I told him I was with Virgin Media, allegedly VM have to pay BT a percentage for line rental! I asked the guy’s name – he gave me the very ‘English’ John Peacock with a very ‘African’ accent – & phone number -0800 0800 152.

Obviously the fellow realized I didn’t believe his story, so offered to demonstrate that he was from BT. I asked how & he told me to hang up & try phoning someone – he would disconnect my phone to prevent this. AND HE DID !! My phone was dead – no engaged tone, nothing – until he phoned me again.

Very pleased with himself, he asked if that was enough proof that he was with BT. I asked how the payment was to be made & he said credit card, there & then. I said that I didn’t know how he’d done it, but I had absolutely no intention of paying him, I didn’t believe his name or that he worked for BT.

He hung up. I dialed 1471 – number withheld. I phoned his fictitious 0800 number – not recognized. So I phoned the police to let them know. I wasn’t the first!

Telephone Scam Warning – Seems To Be Escalating

It’s only just started apparently, but it is escalating.” The advice – let as many people as possible know of this scam. The fact that the phone does go off would probably convince some people it’s real, so please make as many friends & family aware of this.

How is it done?

This is good but not that clever. He gave the wrong number – it should have been 0800 800 152 which takes you through to BT Business. The cutting off of the line is very simple, he stays on the line with the mute button on and you can’t dial out – but he can hear you trying.

This is because the person who initiates a call is the one to terminate it. When you stop trying he cuts off and immediately calls back. You could almost be convinced!

The sad thing is that it is so simple that it will certainly fool many. By the way this is not about getting the cash as this would not get past merchant services – it is all about getting the credit card details which include the security number, to be used for larger purchases. #bewarethescam

Message Sent By Stephen Parr (Police, Community Support Officer Coach), Chester)“

Thanks for reading folks. And, as mentioned, spread the word if you can. Thanks a lot.

Chester Crimewatch

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