Police Scotland are urging people to be wary over fraudsters targetting the Western Isles and Highlands.
The force has received several complaints regarding a scam involving iTunes vouchers and gift cards.
The victim receives a call or message from the scammer who will inform them that they owe money to a company, often HMRC and ask them to buy vouchers to repay the debt.
These criminals are often aggressive and threatening in nature. They will ask for a high value of vouchers to be purchased and the codes sent to them.
Police Scotland said no genuine company or government department would ever make such a request and any call or message of this nature is a scam.
The message is: “Please do not be led to believe that you owe anyone money that can be paid through vouchers or gift cards.
“Always remember to be vigilant when receiving telephone calls or messages from unknown persons or companies.
“Please keep your vulnerable friends and relatives safe and be aware of this ongoing scam in our area.”
The advice is to stop, challenge and protect when receiving such a call.
STOP
Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money, buying vouchers or giving out personal information.
CHALLENGE
Could it be fake? It is okay to refuse any requests of which you are suspicious. Only criminals will try to panic you, rush you or threaten you.
PROTECT
Contact the Police immediately if you think you have fallen for a scam and your bank if you think your details have been compromised.
Police warning over iTunes gift card scam
29 April 2024