Police are warning people to remain vigilant over what appears to be free smartphone giveaways but in fact are malicious scams, following more than 800 reports to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, relating to fake emails claiming to giveaway free mobile phones.
The emails appear to be from US telecoms companies, claiming that recipients will receive a free smartphone if they complete a brief survey as part of a loyalty programme – but the links within the emails lead to websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
Be aware! Criminals are becoming ever more sophisticated and can spend hours researching you and your business to perform a credible impersonation email, call, or text in the hope that you or your staff will let their guard down.
The Take Five to Stop Fraud guidance, to share with friends and colleagues is as follows:
- Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information.
- It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
- Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam – and report it to Action Fraud.
A spokesperson for Action Fraud said: “If you have any doubts about a message, contact the organisation directly. Don’t use the numbers or address in the message – use the details from their official website. Your bank or any other official source will never ask you to supply personal information via email.”
For further guidance on protecting you and your business please contact: [email protected]
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The NEBRC is a Police led non-profit organisation that seeks to educate, inform, and support businesses across the UK on how to protect their business online through good cyber security practices.