North Norfolk Conservative Candidate Iain Dale has warned
local people of a phone scam which could cost them in excess of £250. He was alerted to
it by a Sheringham resident and has since received one of the calls himself.
"If you answer the phone and you get a recorded message put the receiver down
immediately or it could end up costing you a lot of money," Dale warns. The message
says something like "Congratulations, you have won an all expenses paid trip. Press 9
to hear further details." Dale points out that if you press 9 you are connected to a
premium line that charges about £20 a minute. Even if you press 9 and put the receiver
down immediately the other end stays connected for 5 minutes and you end up paying £100.
The final part of the call - after 11 minutes - asks you to key in your postcode and house
number (which has other serious considerations) and then, after a wait of a further two
minutes, responds with the message; "Sorry, you are not one of the lucky
winners." and disconnects, adding a further £260 to your bill!" |
 |
Dale adds: "BT have confirmed to me that they are aware of the
details and are investigating, but because the calls originate from outside the United
Kingdom it may be some time before they can act. In the meantime I am hoping local media
will publicise this scam and that people are informed that they should not press 9 under
any circumstances."
Iain Dale. Conservative Parliamentary Spokesman for North Norfolk.
Iain Dale is available for interview on 07768 254690. |
|
