Kent County Council’s Assistive Technology Team has issued a warning to residents across Kent after receiving reports of scam callers impersonating council representatives or Lifeline service providers.
According to reports received by the Assistive Technology Team, these fraudulent callers claim to be working on behalf of the council or a Lifeline service and target Lifeline users. They request bank details over the phone, alleging that the information is needed to facilitate a digital upgrade of the equipment, warning that failure to comply could result in the termination of the service.
⚠️ Warning: This is a scam!
Residents are advised not to disclose any personal or financial information to these callers under any circumstances. The Kent County Council Assistive Technology Team emphasizes that they will never call Lifeline users to request payment details for existing services.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call:
- Hang Up: If you receive a call that seems suspicious, hang up immediately.
- Report It: Report the incident to Citizens Advice by calling 0808 223 1133.
- Contact Your Bank: If you have already provided your bank details to the scammers, contact your bank immediately to safeguard your finances.
Scams like these prey on unsuspecting individuals, particularly vulnerable members of the community. It’s crucial to remain vigilant and cautious when dealing with unsolicited calls requesting personal or financial information.
By staying informed and reporting suspicious activity, residents can help protect themselves and others from falling victim to scams.
