North police urge public to beware scam calls

NORTH police are warning people in the Highlands to beware scam phone calls, following a flurry of attempted frauds in recent weeks.

Fraudsters are calling Highlanders to say they have won vast sums as a prize in a lottery or similar contest, before asking them for bank details to allow the money to be transferred.

In some cases, those receiving the call will be asked to pay an up-front administration fee, leading to further requests for cash.

A police warning read: "It is highly unlikely that any reputable organisation would call looking for bank details of the recipient or ask for an administration fee.

"The public are reminded of the dangers of divulging their bank details to anyone as this leaves their accounts open to access by others."

A further scam in the area involved the sale of a vehicle. The buyer was told the vehicle would be delivered after advance payment had been made.

They made the payment but never received the vehicle. Police advised people not to make payment without being certain they will gain possession of the vehicle.