Warning over bogus phone call scam

The Safer New Forest Partnership is warning local householders to be on their guard if they receive “threatening” calls from a bogus phone company.

An anonymous male has been calling vulnerable residents across Hampshire to inform them that they have subscribed to a telephone monitoring service and run up bills of between £3,500 and £6,000.

He tells them they have defaulted on the payment and asks for immediate payment over the phone by card.

Residents who have questioned this are told that unless they pay up they will be arrested within hours by the Metropolitan Police and transported to the Queen’s Court in London.

Hampshire Trading Standards advises anybody who receives these calls to hang up immediately. Residents can also register for anonymous call barring with their telephone provider. 

The Partnership urges local people to be wary of all cold callers, either over the telephone or on the doorstep.

If anyone has any information about traders who are cold calling or requires any advice, contact Hampshire County Council’s Quick Response Team on 01962 833666.

Alternatively, contact Hampshire Police by dialling 101 if you are concerned after such a phone call.

Information about the work of the Safer New Forest Partnership can be found on www.communitysafety.newforest.gov.uk or contact Community Safety co-ordinator Stephanie Bennett on 023 8028 5588, email stephanie.bennett@nfdc.gov.uk