The Citizens Advice branch that covers Stone has issued an urgent warning to people in the town to be aware of bogus callers claiming to be from Citizens Advice.
Following a number of incidents, people living in Stone are being urged to ignore any cold calls and put the phone down if the caller is claiming to be from Citizens Advice. The charity is urging people to be aware of the common tactics used by scammers to prey on vulnerable members of the community, and offering advice on how to deal with cold callers and scammers.
The bogus caller may say things such as they have a file on you, or make requests for personal information such as name, address, email or bank details.
However, Citizens Advice will never call you unless you have contacted them first.
[box type=”shadow” align=”aligncenter” ]Sue Nicholls, chief executive at Citizens Advice Staffordshire South West (which covers Stone, Stafford, Cannock and Rugeley), said: “Citizens Advice never makes random calls to people. We have strict rules on client confidentiality, and take privacy seriously. If we’re genuinely calling somebody, we will ascertain who we are talking to first, before revealing our identity. We urge people to remember that we will not call unless we have had contact from you first, or you’re expecting a call from us.
“If you get a call from someone claiming to be from Citizens Advice, and you’re worried it could be a fake, ask for their name and role title, make a note, and then simply hang up. You could then call our number and ask to speak directly to that person. In most other cases of scam calls, you can often tell it is a fake if you’re unable to call their number back.
“When you answer the phone to a scammer, they immediately start making assumptions about you, based on factors such as your voice, or even the manner in which you answered.”
“For example, if you sound quiet, unconfident, or even talk slowly when you speak, it could give the scammer a sense of power. This puts them in control of the phone call, meaning they’re likely to ramp up the pressure to get what they want.”
“Scammers operate by being dominant to create fear or confusion. If you get a cold call, make sure you answer with confidence – sound confident – and immediately question who you’re speaking to. If you weren’t expecting the call and aren’t interested, or if you suspect they might be a scammer, simply put the phone down. We urge you to then call us and report the incident so one of our trained advisors can help you.” [/box]
The charity is highlighting how vulnerable people in the community are more susceptible to scams or are more likely to be targeted by scammers. This might include older people, people with dementia, people who live alone or might have little contact with the outside world, and people with mental health conditions.
[box type=”info” align=”aligncenter” ]Tips for dealing with scam phone calls
- When you’re speaking on the phone, make sure you sound clear and confident
- Never give out personal details such as your name, date of birth, or address
- Be in control of the call and remember you can hang up at any point
- Ask for their name, role title, and where they’re calling from
- Make a note of their details
- Never reveal whether you’ve used a service or purchased a product before
- Never give out credit/debit card details over the phone unless you made the call
- Simply hang up if you’re in doubt or suspect it might be a scammer
It’s important to note that scam calls are different to ‘nuisance calls’. Scammers get hold of your number through whatever means they can, whereas ‘nuisance calls’ from companies selling products such as double glazing or compensation can obtain your number if you’re not registered with the Telephone Preference Service.[/box]
Another Citizens Advice branch based in Burton upon Trent recently issued a similar warning to local people after a fake Citizens Advice caller targeted local residents. They reported the issue to Action Fraud, who have clarified that it is a scam. The case is now being investigated.
The national body of Citizens Advice has also been notified of the scam.
[box type=”warning” align=”aligncenter” ]Anyone who is worried about hoax calls and scams can call Citizens Advice Staffordshire South West on 03444 111 444. Local rates apply. Scams can also be reported directly to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 [/box]
