KCOM urges customers to be vigilant as phone scams rise in region
KCOM is urging people to be aware of scam callers following rise in reports of fake calls in the region.
Urging customers to be vigilant after a spate of scam callers targeting the region
Fraudsters claiming to be from KCOM are cold calling customers from what appear to be a Hull phone numbers in a scam known as “spoofing”.
The IT and communications company is now appealing for people to hang up on suspicious callers and never to hand over personal or banking details.
A spokesperson for KCOM said: “We've been made aware of a spate of scam calls recently from people posing as KCOM, calling from what appear to be local Hull phone numbers.
“This is known as ‘spoofing’ where the scammer can make it look as if they are calling from a 01482 number when in reality they are probably calling from abroad.
“We have already blocked several numbers that have been reported to us by our customers. Fortunately, those customers we’ve spoken to have realised something's not quite right and ended the call – and have avoided losing money as a result.
“If you’re ever suspicious about a call, we recommend you hang up immediately and call us to check. Never give out any personal information or bank details and never allow anyone to take remote control of your computer.
“We never ask for customers’ credit or debit card details over the phone and will always transfer customers who wish to make a payment over to our secure, automated payment line.
“As well as calling KCOM on 01482 602555 anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam caller should report it to Action Fraud, the National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre, by calling 0300 123 2040 or by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk
“Providing Action Fraud with this information enables it to track and fight cyber crime.”