Warning over money scam

Greater Manchester Police is urging members of the public not to fall for a money scam.

Officers from the Economic Crime Desk have received a number of reports of fraud where victims are encouraged to use the facilities of an online cash company, Ukash.

Victims have been asked ask via email or phone to send a fee in the form of a Ukash voucher code in return of bank charges being reclaimed or arranging a loan.

This is an advance fee fraud and those who have fallen victim have lost their money.

Detective Sergeant Ian Paterson from Greater Manchester Police’s Economic Crime Desk said: “I urge consumers not to believe these scammers and not become the next victim of this crime.

“Officials from Ukash say they do not offer this type of service and are concerned their customers are being targeted.

“You may receive calls or emails from people claiming to be from the Ministry of Finance, Money Saving Expert or a loan company asking you to send them a fee in the form of a Ukash voucher code. In all cases, this will be people trying to scam money from you.

“If you are a victim of this type of crime or have received any contact from such companies, I would urge you to report it.” 

David Hunter, Chief Executive of Ukash, said: “We are appalled that scammers are targeting people to defraud their money and we are actively working with the authorities to close them down.

“Our advice is that Ukash voucher details should NEVER be given to cold callers or doorstep sales people. The simple message is to treat Ukash with the same security as you would physical cash. Ukash vouchers should only be used to shop online at websites that are listed on www.ukash.com.

“Anyone who believes they have been targeted should report it to the police and to action fraud UK in the first instance. If they realise that they have been scammed they can also contact us directly via customer services and we will attempt to block the voucher code before it is used.”

To report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use the online fraud reporting tool www.actionfraud.org.uk