Trading Standards has received a number of calls from consumers who have been targeted by imposters claiming to be from the Citizens Advice Bureau. The caller claims to be able to help with money worries by offering debt consolidation.
The Bureau has confirmed that no adviser, or anyone connected with the CAB service, would ever phone or text someone out of the blue and ask for bank details.
If you are cold called or get a text that offers you a loan, help dealing with debt problems or claims to be from your bank – it is almost certainly a scam.
Please make sure that you:
- Don’t give or confirm personal information
- Report the call immediately to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud.org.uk/report_fraud
If you are facing financial difficulty there are many free credit advice services available for help and advice:
Citizens Advice Bureau: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
The Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS): http://www.cccs.co.uk/
Debt Advice Network: www.debtadvicenetwork.org Tel. 0300 011 2340
National Debtline: FREEPHONE 0808 808 4000
Pay Plan: www.payplan.com FREEPHONE 0800 716 239 8am -9pm
For advice on loan scams or any other consumer issues call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/consumer
Telephone Preference Service: You can register your wish not to receive unsolicited sales and marketing telephone calls at www.tpsonline.org.uk or call 0800 398893. It takes 28 days for the service to become effective.
Please pass this information to family, friends, neighbours and anyone you think maybe vulnerable.
Cheshire Constabulary Western Watch Office supports Home Watch Schemes across Chester, Ellesmere Port, Neston and Vale Royal, and is based in the Western Partnership Office, Northwich Police Station. E-mail western.watch@cheshire.pnn.police.uk
TO CONTACT THE POLICE CALL 101
IF YOU WISH TO PASS INFORMATION VIA AN INDEPENDENT ANONYMOUS SOURCE YOU CAN
CALL CRIME STOPPERS ON 0800 555 111