Beware of phone scam

Monmouthshire residents are being warned about a phone scam that aims to trick people into giving out their bank details.

Monmouthshire County Council's Trading Standards officers are asking residents to be vigilant after receiving a number of complaints about the scam.

Several residents have reported receiving telephone calls from people who claim to represent their bank. The caller alleges that the individual is owed between £400 and £600 for a series of charges and errors that have accrued over a number of years. One individual has then been asked to provide bank details in order for the money to be refunded straightaway.

Trading Standards advise that anybody who receives such a call should not pass on any information and simply hang up.

Phil Glanville, MCC's Trading Standards Manager, said:

"Remember that if your bank genuinely calls, you will never be asked to provide your account details or personal information.

"Anybody who has received such a call and has passed out personal information should contact their bank immediately to report it."

For further information on scams consumers can speak to Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk