Another scam warning in the New Forest
Fraudulent phone calls about 'local banks closing'
Last updated 21st Feb 2021
Hampshire Police have been alerted in recent days about a number of scams from people pretending to be from New Forest District Council, and discussing about local banks closing.
It's the latest bogus scheme, as Police and the Council continue to hear of scams and illegitimate callers claiming to be from NFDC.
BEWARE OF BOGUS CALLERS
You're urged to be EXTRA cautious about people claiming to be from the council.
If you have any concerns about the authenticity of someone claiming to be from NFDC, call the Council's right away on 02380 285000. Genuine council staff will happily call you back or prove their identity.
* Be sceptical, not everyone has your best interests at heart
* Unless you are expecting a visitor, do not open the door to cold callers
* Do not accept help from people who want money up front, for example for shopping
* Never give your debit/credit card or PIN number to anyone
* Take your time, don't be rushed on the phone, and if in any doubt, hang up and check with a friend or relative
* Do not click on links in text (SMS) or emails unless you know who they are from
There's more advice from Hampshire County Council's Trading Standards here.