SDLP Social Justice Spokesperson Mark H Durkanhas called for public vigilance following reports of a TV licensing email scam currently circulating.
He condemned fraudsters for preying on vulnerable people at an already challenging time.
Said the Foyle MLA: “I have received reports of a sophisticated email scam currently circulating and have actually been the recipient of one such email.
“The scam, claiming to be from TV licensing advises that a recent Direct Debit payment has been unsuccessful and provides a link to update bank details and make a payment.
“There has been a substantial rise in various other scams during this crisis with fraudsters exploiting Covid-19 fears.
“It is absolutely reprehensible, during a time when people’s anxieties are already heightened, that tricksters would add to those worries by preying on the vulnerable.
“I would urge that people exercise vigilance in relation to any email, text message or call they receive which asks for personal information or details any payment transaction.
“Please do not click or respond to such messages but rather call the organisation which it claims to be from to check its authenticity.
“If in doubt people can also check out the Citizen’s Advice online resource on how to spot a scam.”
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/check-if-something-might-be-a-scam/
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