Fraudsters are calling unsuspecting people and pretending to be from Tesco before trying to get hold of their bank details over the phone.
Dyfed-Powys Police has issued a warning after receiving a number of reports from people saying they had been called by someone claiming to be from the supermarket giant.
The call, which police said was automated, tells the victim their order has been placed with Tesco and that their bank account will be debited by a sum of £350.
The message then says: “If this is not the right amount, please press 1 to go through to our fraud team”.
However, by pressing ‘1’, the member of the public is put through to a scammer who will attempt to gain as many personal details as possible, including bank details.
Dyfed-Powys Police has warned people to be wary of this type of call and has issued the following advice:
- Do not pass any personal or financial details to anyone who calls you out of the blue
- Do not follow any links if the criminals text or email them through - these will take you to fake sites that are built to look authentic
- Never accept or download any remote software to your computer that allows other people to access it
- Do not sign into your bank account online if you have installed remote access software, otherwise there’s a good chance you’ll lose money
- If someone on a cold call asks you to download a remote access app or to access your bank account - end the call
- If you have received a call like this, and you’ve accessed your account or transferred money – always contact your bank on the number on the back of your bank card. Never use a number you’ve been given by the caller
Find out about crime levels where you live:
A spokeswoman for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “During a time where more and more people are grocery shopping online or using click and collect services, a number of you have reported to us that you’ve received scam calls from fraudsters pretending to be Tesco.
“These are smart criminals who know what they’re doing, and they will often appear genuine. If you receive a call like this, it’s best to hang up and either check your Tesco online account yourself, or call Tesco directly from a number you have obtained.
“You can report any incidents where you’ve fallen victim to this type of fraud to us, either online, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101.”
