Edinburgh Police are investigating a second significant ‘vishing’ fraud in the city this month.
A woman in her nineties received a call at her Craigleith home from a fraudster purporting to work for a bank’s Fraud Department. They persuaded her to transfer her life savings, a five figure sum, into their account. This follows a similar incident at the beginning of June where a lady in her sixties gave her savings to conmen who called and told her that her bank card had been fraudulently used, and to transfer cash into a so-called “holding account”.
Detective Inspector Arron Clinkscales said: “These fraudsters are extremely convincing – they use apps which make the call appear to be from a bank or even police, mimicking their numbers. But crucially, they ask that you transfer money or take it out of your account. No bank or police officer would ever make a phone call to request this.
“If you receive such a call, take details and hang up – then call your bank from another phone, using a number from the phone book or official documents you hold. They will be able to give you advice and confirm that your accounts are secure.”
Police are investigating both of these incidents and would encourage anyone who receives such a phone call to contact them on 101.
DI Clinkscales continued: “We are working hard to identify these individuals who are preying on older and vulnerable members of our communities. I would urge everyone to make sure that all friends, relatives and neighbours are aware of our advice, and do not feel scared or intimidated if they receive such a call or email.
“Simple measures can be taken, like email filters and the Telephone Preference Service. More information can be found on our website in the Personal Safety section.”
Anyone with information that can assist officers with their inquiries is asked to contact Police via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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