Vulnerable pensioners from Lancashire cruelly targeted by O2 sim card scam

Two pensioners from Lancashire have been targeted by scammers pretending to be from phone company O2.

Police received two reports of fraud over the weekend.

The first report was made by the daughter of a 69-year-old man, who had received a call from a man purporting to be from O2, saying that he needed a new SIM card.

The man agreed, and a new phone was delivered to him. He received a further call telling him the delivery was a mistake, and he had to send the phone back using a label inside.

Later, a 49-year-old woman from Lancaster reported to us that she had been contacted by a person purporting to also be from O2.

Her account details were obtained after the caller told her that she was due a free upgrade to a 5G SIM card and have taken two £1 payments to ‘secure the order’.

A number of fraudulent purchases were then made. The fraudulent purchases were then delivered to the woman’s house, before the parcels were stolen.

A spokeperson for Lancashire Police said: “Enquiries into these two reports are ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to get in touch with us.

“We want to use this time to remind you of some safety tips, to avoid becoming these scammers’ next victim.

“Always verify who you are speaking to if you have concerns that a call you have received isn’t genuine. Hang up the phone, check your line is clear or use a different phone, and call a customer service number. Never share your one time passcodes, passwords, PINs or bank details.”

They added: “You can install call blockers or register with a telephone preference service to stop unsolicited calls. Your telephone provider can assist with this.

“If you feel worried or concerned about a call, tell the police or someone you trust. If money has left your bank account, let your bank know as soon as possible.”

If you think you, or someone you know may have been a victim of fraud, you can report it to us on 101 or Report Fraud on 0300 1232040.