Suspicious WhatsApp messages
Date Added: 27/09/2022
Act with caution if you receive a suspicious WhatsApp message
Trading Standards have recently seen an increase in reports from residents who have received a suspicious WhatsApp message.
These messages can vary in tone but will commonly involve the sender attempting to trick you into thinking they are a family member or friend, by often claiming “Mum, I’ve lost my phone, so I’m using a friend’s…” or “Hi, this is my new number…”.
They may claim they need your help and ask you to transfer money into a bank account so an urgent bill or fine can be paid.
The sender may even exchange further messages with you in an effort to try and convince you into thinking they are someone you know, but their again they will eventually ask you to send them some money.
These types of messages are scams!
The Trading Standards team is warning residents to act with caution if they receive a suspicious message similar to above. Despite what the sender claims, always take a moment to contact the person the sender is claiming to be, by using contact details you already have and never trust those being used or given in the suspicious message.
Never engage or reply to these types of messages and instead block the number on your phone from further attempts to contact you.
If you wish to report a suspicious telephone call to us, please call 0808 223 1133
Please help prevent others from falling victim to this type of scam, by telling your family, friends and neighbours about this alert.
Be scam aware!