‘Cruel scam’ Lloyds Bank warns Britons to watch out for messages as people lose thousands | Personal Finance | Finance
The number of WhatsApp scams has rocketed by 2000 percent in the last year, according to Lloyds Bank’s recent research. With victims of this scam losing on average £1,950 each, the bank has issued a fresh statement warning Britons what to look out for.
The ‘scamdemic’ is showing no signs of slowing down as reports of scams have been hitting the headlines almost every day.
One scam that has been tricking Britons out of their hard-earned savings is sent over WhatsApp pretending to be from a family member in trouble.
Lloyds Bank said victims are losing around £1,950 each on average to this scam that makes people think a relative needs help.
The WhatsApp message comes from an unknown number, claiming to be a loved one who has lost their phone.
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Liz Ziegler, Fraud Prevention Director at Lloyds Bank, said: “Organised criminal gangs are always inventing new ways to dupe people out of their hard-earned cash.
“The emergence of the WhatsApp scam over the last year shows the depths to which these heartless crooks are prepared to sink.
“This is a cruel scam which preys on someone’s love for their family and friends, and that natural instinct we all have to protect those closest to us.
“With fraud on the rise it’s vital that people are aware of the warning signs and how to stay safe.”
Fraudsters have also been taking advantage of the situation in Ukraine and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Age UK reported that fraudsters are sending phishing text messages claiming to be from charities, in order to convince people to donate.
People should do their own research into the charity before making a donation.
They should also be wary of any messages that have a sense of urgency or ask for personal details.
