Police urge residents in the Western Isles to be vigilant following scam related incidents

Officers in the Western Isles have seen a recent spate of scam related incidents and are urging members of the public to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim.

In one case, an 81-year-old man was conned out of around £85,000 after receiving numerous cold calls prior to the suspects setting up online banking and re-routing his bank statements and card.

A 75-year-old woman also lost around £25,000 when she attempted to purchase crypto currency and was instructed to follow a link online. The suspects then took over her computer and applied for several high value loans in her name.

Extensive enquiries are ongoing into both incidents.

Constable Anna Innes said: “These scams are not always easy to spot, and anyone can be fooled. These criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations, and the police. Often, they have details about a person they should not have, hence convincing people they are legitimate.

“If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from your bank or financial institution, and you are in any doubt at all, hang up and contact the bank using the phone number on the back of your card or official paperwork. If the caller is genuine, they will understand your hesitation, don’t feel pressured to handing over details or withdrawing money.

“Do not trust any unexpected correspondence and never pass your personal or financial details to anyone, unless you are certain who they are and why they require that information. If you feel the need to reply to correspondence to check the authenticity of a contact, only use the company’s verified official website and the communication methods detailed upon it.”

Any victims of such crimes, or anyone with any concerns can contact Police Scotland via 101.

Scam advice is available on our website – https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/scams-and-frauds/