Trading Standards Warning - Fraudulent Activity Scam Calls

26th October 2023

There are regular reports of scam calls where an automated message says that there has been fraudulent activity on your bank account or credit card.

You are usually asked to press 1 to review or cancel the 'suspicious' transactions. This may connect you to a scammer, who will ask you to provide your bank account or credit card details.

How to Avoid

If you receive an unexpected call or message from your credit card provider or bank and are unsure if it is legitimate, contact your provider/bank using their official number (found on the back of your card, a statement or on their website).

Don't follow instructions given in an automated call. If you press any keys, you may be put through to a scammer who will ask for your personal details, which they could potentially use to commit fraud.

Don't phone numbers provided in unexpected messages. If you are concerned about your credit card or bank account, call your provider/bank using their official number.

Be suspicious of any unexpected text message or cold call which appears to be from your credit card provider or bank, particularly from a 'fraud department', and asks you to act urgently to avoid losing money.

Find out more
Police Scotland advice on bank fraud: www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/scams-and-frauds/other-electronic-fraud-types/#safe
ScamShare PDF on banking scams: www.tsscot.co.uk/Spotlight-Banking.pdf

General Advice on Avoiding Scams
Advice Direct Scotland: www.consumeradvice.scot/knowledge-centre or call 0808 164 6000
Citizens Advice Scotland: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland/consumer
Police Scotland: www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/scams-and-frauds
Financial Conduct Authority: www.fca.org.uk/consumers/protect-yourself-scams
Neighbourhood Watch Scotland Alerts: www.neighbourhoodwatchscotland.co.uk
Which?: www.which.co.uk/consumer-rights/scams
Age Scotland: www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/information-advice/money-matters/scams/