Police warn Borderers over Sky TV scam
POLICE are warning Borders households to beware of conmen claiming to be from Sky TV.
It follows a 76-year-old Earlston man who lost a four figure sum after being duped into believing he was due a refund.
And the conmen also attempted to scam money from a 79-year-old Galashiels woman.
Lothian and Borders Police say a number of residents across the Borders have been contacted by the scammers who say they are due a refund.
They then send out a pin reader and ask the customers to enter their bank pin number into it.
The Earlston pensioner lost over £1,000 after entering his pin on several occasions, with the cash later taken from his account.
Officers are now urging anyone who receives a pin-reading device following a similar telephone call to contact them immediately.
A police spokesman said: “These callers sound very convincing and have targeted individuals who are currently Sky TV customers.
“However, the public should not be fooled by this scam and should under no circumstances enter their pin into any machine they receive to their home.
“If you are uncertain as to the authenticity of a caller claiming to be from Sky, hang up and dial their customer service number, which can usually be found on your box, or on their website.
“We are keen to hear from anyone else who may have been affected by this con and would urge people to come forward as soon as possible if they believe they have been defrauded.”
Anyone with any information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.
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Weather for Galashiels
Wednesday 22 May 2013
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