Published on:
17
September 2012
Clackmannanshire and Stirling Council's Trading Standards are warning local consumers to be aware of telephone calls from people claiming to represent a loan company.
The scam involves the caller telling a resident they will have no problem in being granted a loan but in order to access the money, they need to pay a fee up front through an electronic money transfer service.
The fraudsters then tell the victims that paying this upfront fee will allow them to quickly transfer or personally deliver the money.
Trading Standards Service have issued the following advice to residents:
Don't transfer money to loan companies using untraceable money transfer services when applying for loans.
Don't go ahead with a loan if a company approves it and then demands a fee before you get the money.
Do be cautious if a loan company cold-calls you.
Do some research about the business offering the loan - look for correct phone numbers and physical addresses and ask for information in writing.
Enterprise and Environment Committee Convener, Councillor Donald Balsillie: said: "In the current economic climate individuals are finding it difficult to obtain credit and criminals are capitalising on this using devious means and targeting vulnerable people.
"Consumers are advised never to transfer money using money transfer services when taking out loans and to always be on your guard if someone cold calls you and offers you a loan."
If you have received such a telephone call and wish to talk to a member of the Trading Standards Team, please phone 0845 277 7000.