News / CAB warns of phone scam
THE LOCAL Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is warning people in the islands to beware cold-callers falsely claiming to be from the “Citizens Advice contact centre” and asking people for details about their finances in order to con them out of money.
CAB’s Shetland branch said at least one resident had been cold-called and offered a “benefits check” this week, while there have been reports of similar calls in other parts of Scotland in recent months.
The experiences reported were similar, suggesting a “coordinated scam” is underway with calls being targeted at different geographical areas.
Local CAB manager Karen Eunson said Citizens Advice never makes unsolicited calls to anyone asking for personal and bank details, and nor would any reputable organisation.
“If you get such a call, it is a scam,” Eunson said. “Do not given them your personal details. Call us at the CAB on (01595) 694696 or the local trading standards office on (01595) 744887 to report the scam.
“We do offer benefits checks to help people make sure they are getting all the welfare benefits they are entitled to but we only give this help to people who come and ask for it. We never cold-call anyone.”
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