IT phone scam warning from Cheshire East Council

 

Cheshire East Council is warning residents to be wary of a telephone scam targeting people in the area.

The authority’s consumer protection and investigations team has been made aware of a con in which people have been phoned by a person claiming to be from an IT firm.

In some instances, the caller offers to visit the home to remove a virus from the person’s computer – but asks for a payment upfront over the phone.

The Council is not aware of any households having given out their personal information to these callers but would like them to remain vigilant.

Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibility for safer and stronger communities, said: “We have received some calls which relate to this type of scam but, as far as we know, nobody has disclosed their bank details to the callers. Consumers should never make any payments without checking the credentials of the caller.

“We would advise Cheshire East residents to contact the Telephone Preference Service on 0845 070 0707, where they can opt out from receiving unsolicited marketing calls.

“Anyone who suspects they may be the victim of a phone scam can report it to Consumer Direct, by phone, on 08454 04 05 06. There is also lots of helpful information on the Cheshire East Council website www.cheshireeast.gov.uk.”