News / Scam warning
TRADING Standards are warning islanders no to respond to pop-up adverts on their computers regardless of how tempting the offer might be.
The warning comes as the local authority itself is being used by scammers to lull people into parting with their credit card details.
Team leader David Marsh said: “Pop-ups may appear on your computer stating ‘Dear Valued Shetland Islands Council Customer’, then invites you to take part in a short questionnaire and offers you reward gifts.
“The offer of moisturisers is a regular product for this sort of scam, but this one also offers you the choice of slimming pills or e-cigarettes.
“These are all consumable products, so we expect that if you pay the shipping cost for the Advanced Skincare Kit, the following month you will be sent it again but this time charged £99.95 + shipping, and every month until you manage to stop it.”
His advice is clear: “Don’t respond to pop-ups on your computer and never give your credit card details”.
Scams can be reported by contacting the Trading Standards office at www.shetland.gov.uk/tradingstandards, by calling 01595 744887, or in person at the council’s office on the ground floor of Charlotte House, in Lerwick.
They can also be reported via the Action Fraud website at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040
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