POLICE have issued advice and warning to relatives and carers of older or vulnerable people of a new scam by crooks.
In a message on the PSNI Foyle Facebook page, Constable L said: “We want to make you aware of an increase in telephone scams currently happening across the city targeting older or vulnerable people.
“Victims are being contacted and informed that they are entitled to a large refund of money.
“These scammers are stating that the name of their company is Claims Advisory Group and they are working on behalf of a government office.
“After a few calls and having gained a rapport with the victim, they ask for the victim’s postcode and they then inform them of their nearest PayPoint.
“The victim is then instructed to go to this PayPoint and purchase a number of vouchers (e.g. Neosafe, ITunes etc).
“Once these have been purchased they are advised to ring 01613543756 and quote the voucher numbers.
“The victim is advised that a cheque will be hand delivered to their address – THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN!
“Do not disclose any personal details over the phone.
“These scammers, having made a number of calls to the victim will piece together small bits of information which may build up enough of a picture to positively identify someone and their vulnerabilities.
“We would appeal to businesses with PayPoint or similar devices to be alert for older/vulnerable persons who appear to be buying an irregular transaction of vouchers – Constable L.”
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