Local MSP Gil Paterson is warning Bankies to keep their wits about them following reports of scam phone calls from crooks pretending to be from HMRC.
The scammers have managed to clone the HMRC helpline number and when people answer the call they hear a recorded message telling them that they are being investigated for tax fraud and a warrant has been issued for their arrest. Commenting on the scam, Mr Paterson said; “The conmen who prey on innocent, often elderly, people with scams like this are despicable, we all have to be vigilant so that they don’t get away with it. “HMRC have told me that they would never contact you over the phone, if HMRC need to get in touch with you they will write, they will not phone so don’t ever give any personal information over the phone. “The message is clear, just hang up, don’t engage in conversation with these people, don’t press any keys on your phone, hang up immediately.” HMRC advise anyone who thinks that they may have fallen victim to this scam to contact the police. Anyone who has revealed financial information should also contact their bank. |
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