Issued: 2 Jul 2008
NORTHERN Constabulary is warning householders not to give out any details to cold callers claiming to be from the Halifax/Bank of Scotland following a number of alleged frauds over the past few days.
A number of people in Inverness in particular have had significant sums of money removed from their accounts as a result of the scam.
Police are urging householders, particularly the elderly, not to give out any details to individuals claiming to be from their bank, especially details such as bank account numbers, passwords and other sensitive information.
Officers would also ask members of the public to exercise extreme caution in relation to any telephone calls they may receive in relation to their bank accounts.
Chief Inspector Julian Innes said: "There have been a number of instances recently where cold callers have been claiming to be from a bank and asking for account details."
"This is not normal banking practice and no details of accounts, passwords or P.I.N codes should be discussed on the telephone."
He added: "If anyone is in any doubt please take the name and phone number of the caller and call the Police."
Officers are currently carrying out investigations into the reported incidents to date and the warning to the public extends to all areas of the Force. The public across the Highlands and Islands are asked to remain vigilant.
If anyone feels they may have been a victim of such a fraud they should contact Police on 08456 033388 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.