Police probe as scam stings Ross resident
A ROSS-SHIRE resident scammed out of thousands of pounds has prompted police to help raise the profile of scare tactics in parting vulnerable people from their cash.
The alarm was raised after police were alerted to a series of calls being made by someone claiming to represent HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
The caller sought payment for outstanding tax bills and legal fees and threatened court action if the money was not paid immediately.
Police revealed that in one recent case, that resulted in a Ross-shire resident losing a five-figure sum.
An ongoing probe was triggered after the victim became suspicious of who they were dealing with and filed a report.
Officers are now urging people to be on their guard against any unexpected calls.
Inspector Richard Ross of the preventions and interventions unit said: “The criminals who use tactics like this prey on people’s good nature and frequently use scare tactics to part victims from their hard-earned savings.
“It is a cruel practice and we want as many people to be aware of the risks as possible.
“The most important thing to remember is that genuine representatives of HMRC, banks or any other financial organisation will not cold call and demand money or personal details over the phone.
“You should not feel under pressure to make immediate decisions over the phone. If you have doubts about who you are speaking to then hang up and phone the organisation they claim to represent back on a number you have sourced yourself or speak to someone face to face at a local branch if that is an option.
“These types of scams are not new but the criminals who carry them out now go to great lengths to appear professional and legitimate.
“Often victims may feel embarrassed for being deceived but the only people responsible are the fraudsters themselves. These criminals work hard to pass themselves off as genuine and can make victims act in ways they never thought they would. It is healthy to be sceptical of any unexpected call you receive from someone asking for money over the phone – if the caller is genuine then they will understand your concerns and not mind if you end the call. If you have any doubts at all then end the call. Do not ever disclose financial details such as your PIN or agree to transfer money over the phone.
“We work closely with banks to help advise people on how to spot this type of fraud however we need everyone to be vigilant and look out for family, friends and neighbours, particularly if they are elderly or vulnerable. Advise them on the signs to look out for and help them have the confidence to say no and to hang up.”
Anyone with concerns about scam calls should call Police Scotland on 101.
