• Sumo

Something that I recently read on Yahoo and in the papers about a scam that’s catching people out.  Their getting phone calls apparently from their bank to say that their is an issue with their card.  Then they get asked for the pin number, confirm the address and then a courier comes to collect the card.

If you get a call like the above, HANG UP.  Your bank or whatever organisation you have your money with will NEVER ask for your pin number.  You get told this over and over by the news, newspapers, magazines, radio and on the internet.

Should you get an email saying that your account has been frozen or cancelled, then use the number on statements or official letters and phone them about it.  Better still, go to a local branch and speak to a member of staff.  They will happily check things for you.  If there is an issue, they will deal with it for you.  DON’T click on the link in the email.  The site might look OK, but, it will be an impersonation of the real site.

If you ever have ANY doubts about a communication from a financial institution, then get in touch with them directly.

Let me state it again, YOUR BANK/BUILDING SOCIETY WILL NEVER ASK FOR YOUR PIN.  It is only for you to know and PLEASE do NOT pass it on to anyone else either.  It is part of making your account secure and safe.  Don’t let criminals and fraudsters fool you, not matter how convincing.

If you want, tell them that your “good friend” Malcolm told you that you should never give your details like your pin over the phone, text, letter or an email.  Then hang up on them, with my permission, if you need it.

I don’t want you to lose your life savings, pension or any other money to these unscupulous people.  It’s yours, so please make sure it stays that way!!

Hopefully, this post will be read by many people and help reduce the number of victims considerably.

Let me just say it one more time:

If anyone gets in touch with you for your account pin number or even your account number. STOP, THINK and then get in touch with that organisation with the official contact numbers you received from them  Better still, visit the bank in person and talk to them about your concerns.  They are there to help you!!

I know some elderly people get a bit confused and flustered, please keep an eye on them.  Talk to them, you could help save them from a lot of stress.  Don’t let them fall foul of these scams, and, be careful yourself!!!

Filed under: Malcolm Charlaw • Recommended

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