File photo of someone using a computer (Alamy/PA)
A Co Down woman has been scammed out of thousands of pounds from her bank after being targeted by criminals earlier this week.
Police said the woman reported the incident to police on Tuesday after two of her banks where she holds business accounts contacted her to advise of fraudulent activity detected.
Police said a “significant amount” of money had been taken from the accounts and said the hacker appears to have been from outside Northern Ireland.
PSNI local chief inspector for Ards and North Down, Keith Hutchinson, said: “On Tuesday, 5th August we received a report from a member of the public who had been contacted by not one, but two banks where she has business accounts set up.
“Both banks advised that there had been fraudulent activity on the victim’s banking accounts and that a significant amount of money in each had been taken.
“A number of police enquiries were conducted, but as the hacker did not appear to reside in Northern Ireland, the matter has since been referred to Action Fraud for further assessment.
“With criminals using increasingly sophisticated methods to gain access to individuals’ banking details, often through phishing emails, scam phone calls or text messages impersonating legitimate and reputable companies, it’s making it harder for members of the public to spot the truth, in that these people are criminals.
“We will continue to remind the public to never share their banking passwords, PINs, or one-time verification codes to anyone, even if they claim to be from your bank. Victims are often contacted unexpectedly and pressured into providing sensitive information or transferring money, so please be on your guard at all times. Protecting your personal banking details is essential.
File photo of someone using a computer (Alamy/PA)
News Catch Up – Thursday 7th August
“The best way to fight scams and not lose money is to Stop. Check. Report. By following these simple rules, you could avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime.”
- Stop – Before you transfer money or disclose any personal details to anyone you do not know. Do not feel rushed or pressured by timelines – genuine callers will always give you time to consider your options.
- Check – Check and verify who you are communicating with using a trusted source. Take time to verify callers on another phone line where possible and check images via an image search. If you are in any doubt do not transfer any money or goods.
- Report – If you have been a victim of a scam, report it to police online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or call on 101, to your bank immediately, online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. You can also forward scam texts to 7726.
Further information and advice can be found at: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni or the ScamwiseNI Facebook page @scamwiseni.