Scammer warning issued in Blackpool

In an alert sent out across the county, the NFIB said residents have been told their subscription needs to be renewed, or that part or all of their TV equipment has expired and is due an upgrade.

The callers ask for bank details, and possibly for proof of ID.

But the NFIB warned: “Later, victims make enquiries and discover their TV service provider did not call them, and the fraudster has made transactions using the victim’s bank details.”

The NFIB highlighted three numbers it said the scammers are using: 08447111444; 02035190197; and 08001514141.

It urged people not to assume the phone calls are genuine just because the caller knows their basic details, such as name and address, or even their mother’s maiden name.

“Have the confidence to refuse unusual requests for personal or financial information,” it added. “Contact the company yourself.”