Don't be duped by scam parcel postcards warns Highland Council Trading Standards

19th March 2015

Highland Council Trading Standards are aware that Scam postcards are being delivered to residents' homes claiming that a parcel containing "jewellery" or valuables up to £50 is waiting for the homeowner.

The message on the postcard states: "The office is attempting to reach you. To claim this parcel and accept this offer, you must telephone the number below immediately and arrange for a delivery. The item is prepaid, but a processing and delivery free of £10 must be remitted. This fee can be paid only by telephone and only with a credit card (VISA or MasterCard). This is your only notification"

The telephone number shown on the card is a 0800 number but previously 020 numbers have also been used. If you call the number shown you are asked to pay £10 by credit card.

Highland Council Trading Standards understand that this fraud has been reported to Action Fraud by victims throughout the UK. Persons calling the number printed have said that the automated service told them the package would be delivered the same day, but did not receive anything.

Action Fraud has issued advice on their website regarding these particular scams for recipients of this postcard to follow.

Their advice to anyone who receives one of these postcards:

· Do not call the number provided.
· Do not give your card details.
· Report to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or by using the online reporting tool which can be found at: www.actionfraud.police.uk/reportfraud

Members of the public are also asked to be on their guard if they receive a delivery card through their letter box asking them to dial a premium rate number. Recipients are being asked to report this matter to Phonepayplus on 0800 500 212 (Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm).

Concerned recipients can also contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service for further advice on 0345 04 05 06 or by going to http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/scotland/consumers.htm or visit or write to: Highland Council Trading Standards Service, 38 Harbour Road, Inverness.