On Air Now Josh Beaven Live from the Hilton Barbados Resort 7:00pm - Midnight Ed Sheeran - Overpass Graffiti Schedule

Fraud And Computer Scams Among Latest Isle Of Wight Warnings

A flurry of new scam warnings have been issued for the Isle of Wight today (Thursday).

Government email scam

Emails are being received purporting to be from the Government.

They have the Government logo and a crown on them in an attempt to make them look authentic.

They state you are eligible for a discount under the Energy Bill Support Scheme and ask you to click on a link to provide details to receive the discount.

Along with your name, phone number and address they ask for your date of birth along with your bank details to receive the discount.

This is a SCAM do not click on the link and definitely do not provide any details, scammers are relying on our increased vulnerability due to the current cost of living crisis.

Fraud department calls

Residents report receiving calls alleging to be the fraud department of your bank claiming that payments have been taken for online sales and they will try to get you to download an app onto your device that will give them remote access.

This is a scam and once you have given them the access, they will be able to glean information about you and potentially take all of your money.

If you receive a phone call claiming to be your bank and trying to get you to give them access to your device hang up immediately, close your device down and contact your bank on the number on the back of your card or by calling 159 and selecting your bank.

NEVER give anyone remote access to your device.

Computer scam

Island residents report getting constant phone calls from somebody saying their computer isn’t working properly, and they are offering to fix it – they will then try to gain remote access to your device in an attempt to defraud you.

One lady recognised this as a scam and was subsequently subjected to harassment throughout the day becoming rude and aggressive.

If you don’t recognise the number calling you DON’T answer the phone or investigate some form of call blocking

Be wary of any pop ups or emails claiming that your device security has expired and asking you to click on a link to renew it.

If you aren’t sure when it expires free security is available from a selection of companies online, or you can purchase this from trusted traders.

More from Isle of Wight News