Bromley Trading Standards is reminding residents to be aware of text message scams which attempt to obtain personal details, banking information, and money.
Scam text messages typically include a link which redirects to a fake website where private information – name, phone number and address, bank account details – and sometimes a payment is requested. Fraudsters can use this information to contact residents directly with other scams.
Text message scams are fraud like any other scam and are variations on a theme. A few examples of rogue texts are as follows:
'Missed parcel delivery' texts
These texts may impersonate well-known delivery companies and inform recipients that a delivery has been missed or is likely to be missed. The text would include a link which offers recipients the choice to rearrange the delivery or pay a non-existent fee, but it instead redirects to a fake website wherein people are prompted to provide their personal details. Learn how to spot this scam on the Which? website.
'Winter Heating Subsidy' texts
These texts may include a link to a site where recipients can update their information to receive the subsidy payment, but this is also a scam. Visit the GOV.UK website to check for eligibility for heating subsidies this Winter.
'HMRC Self-Assessment' texts
These texts may present recipients with the offer of a tax refund. With the 31 January tax return deadline approaching, HMRC is warning residents to be cautious of refund scams. Visit the GOV.UK website for more information.
Typical signs that a message is fake:
- The message is sent from an unknown number.
- It urges you to take action.
- A link is provided which directs you to what may resemble an official website.
- You are not expecting a delivery from the courier or retailer mentioned in the message.
Protect yourself from text message scams:
- Stop. Think Fraud! – Are you expecting a parcel? Are you sure they are who they claim to be?
- Don't click the link – Make your own checks, e.g. if you are expecting a parcel, contact the retailer or their confirmed courier via their website or other trusted method.
- Don't reply to the text or call the number – doing so will tell the scammer that your number is active, and they may target you with other scams.
- Forward the text to 7726.
- Delete the text.
Report
Protect yourself and others by reporting incidents.
If you have given your bank details, contact your bank as soon as possible on 159.
Report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or on the Action Fraud website.
Contact Citizens Advice for help and advice on 0808 223 1133 or on the Citizens Advice website.
Forward a suspicious text message to 7726.
Visit the Ofcom website to learn how to report scam texts and calls.
Report a suspicious website on the NCSC website.
Forward a suspicious email to report@phishing.gov.uk.
Bromley Trading Standards
To keep up with the latest scam alerts and warnings from Bromley Trading Standards sign up on www.bromley.gov.uk/TradingStandardsAlertSignUpForm.
Bromley Trading Standards also runs a fair-trader directory to help you find a safe, reliable trader that you can trust, visit www.bromley.gov.uk/tradingstandardschecked to learn more.