Consumers in Halton have been receiving texts allegedly from their bank. Many of these are scams, warn Halton Borough Council’s Trading Standards officers.
The message states: “A total of £1,399.99 is due out of your account tomorrow on the merchant Argos.
“If this wasn’t you follow the link: secure-nationalert.com”
The link will likely contain at least of one of three things:
1. Malware that may harm your device
2. Ransomware which locks your device and the scammer will then request a payment to release it.
3. Demand/request for you to supply personal details or bank account information
Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Trading Standards, Cllr Dave Cargill, said: “This a scam, do not click on the link or reply, just simply delete the text message. If you have any concerns then independently contact your bank. “
If you or somebody you know has been caught out by a scam or fraud please contact one of our specialist officers, Linda or Sue on 0151 511 8785 or 0151 511 8775, who are already working with people in Halton who have lost thousands of pounds to scams.
If you need advice on anything else please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline or 0808 223 1133
