SCAMS!

Helen P3 · November 2021

As criminals are more and more determined to get hold of our cash and have thus become endlessly inventive, I thought perhaps a thread dedicated to the subject, which would show the range and methods of scums that we are aware of, all in one specific place, might be helpful to us all.

I know that their infinite variety is exhausting but I hope you agree that if we try to help each other- by revealing their tricks- this might protect us somewhat.

I have sent a PM to Artemis, asking her if she could post her earlier scam message here. She said she would.

Artemis3 · November 2021

A parcel delivery scam

Jason, an old neighbour of mine, just told me that about midday yesterday, a DPD parcel with an iPhone12 in it was delivered at his home. The name and address were correct; but, he had not ordered a phone.

A minute or two later, a man in DPD uniform appeared. Jason told him that the parcel had been addressed wrongly. He said he would take it back. Jason asked for a confirmation note. He said he would get it from the “van”. Jason followed him. There was no van anywhere. He told him, “the other delivery man must’ve taken it for nearby deliveries”, and continued to walk on. Jason followed. Suddenly he sprinted towards a black car that was waiting for him and sped off.

Jason called the police and the iPhone company. That was all he could do.

Helen P3 said:

I know that their infinite variety is exhausting but I hope you agree that if we try to help each other- by revealing their tricks- this might protect us somewhat.

I think this is a very good idea, Helen

JennyJ · November 2021

Some of the obvious ones to begin with (for the sake of completeness).

Any unsolicited contact (phone call, email, text message, post etc) that appears to be offering something for nothing or a "prize" for something you haven't entered is very likely to be a scam.

Any unsolicited contact telling you there's a problem with your computer/phone/other gadget is a scam.

Doghouse Riley · November 2021

Here's an old one from a year ago posted on another board, but it may get used again.

How true it is I don't know as I didn't want to pay £315 to find out!

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/6030279/uploads/editor/aj/ubjg983rz1ev.png

Zoe P2 · November 2021

Every day this week, I've been receiving a great variety of these very generous offers; all supplying a link too to be clicked on...

BenCotto · November 2021

When I received the phone message enquiring about my recent car accident and my entitlement to compensation I was very cagey about the whole thing, not giving much away. Eventually I conceded and said Camilla was OK but Prince Charles was slightly shaken. However Special Branch we’re explicit in saying I should not mention it to anyone so how did they know? They hung up.

I do like teasing these cold callers. When one phoned not so long ago asking me if “I was trading” I wholeheartedly agreed and said I was on my way to the CoOp at that very instant to buy potatoes and bread. It seems that was not what they meant.

philippasmith2 · November 2021

You can elect to receive regular info / advice on various scams doing the rounds from WHICH.

I can't say that they cover all given the ever inventive nature of scammers but at least it may offer some warning which could be helpful.

@Artemis3 All applause to your neighbour for his actions but it may be wise to point out that his actions could have resulted in him coming to harm - a biff on the head or worse.
Thankfully not in that particular case but just something to consider

Zoe P2 · November 2021

BenCotto said:

Eventually I conceded and said Camilla was OK but Prince Charles was slightly shaken.

🤣

BenCotto said:

one phoned not so long ago asking me if “I was trading” I wholeheartedly agreed and said I was on my way to the CoOp at that very instant to buy potatoes and bread. It seems that was not what they meant.

I dare not ask what he actually meant!

Sam 37 · November 2021

At about 5pm on Thursday, a man came to the door, "explaining" that he was working for some cable company, laying new cable; wasn't selling anything but wanted me to take my phone to the door so he could check my internet speed!!

amancalledgeorge · November 2021

Just to mention once more anyone using android, it's worth installing Google's own calling app as it contains call screening as standard. So you don't have to bother with any spam calls. If you have a third party made phone it's worth a try. They will bring the automated Google assistant feature to the UK soon which essentially responds and transcribes the response so you know if it's a genuine call.

Can be found here: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.dialer

amancalledgeorge · November 2021

And of course register with the telephone preference service too

SCAMS!

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