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It started with Hello…..

People are used to receiving messages from unknown numbers, but this “Hello” could be the start of a scam.

 

Any response, from “?????” “Wrong number” or another simple “hello” verifies to the scammer that your phone number is active.  From here the scam could go on to impersonate Police or the Bank, inform you owe a parking fine, be the start of a romance fraud, to name just a few of the many, many other ways of manipulating you into giving away sensitive personal or banking information.

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And as a bonus if you do reply, expect more text messages from random numbers in the future.  

 

So what should you do? 

  • Do not reply.
  • Do not click on any links.
  • Forward the message to 7726 along with the number the text came from.
  • Delete and block the number.
  • If you have given any personal information report the incident to Action Fraud via their website or by calling 0300 123 2040 and if you have given any financial information inform your bank immediately.

    • Please share this information with friends and family.

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    Message Sent By
    Rebecca Smith
    (Police, Cyber & Fraud Protect, Prepare & Prevent Officer, Cyber Crime Unit)
    Neighbourhood Alert