Police are warning people to remain vigilant over free smartphone giveaways which are scams.
Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, has received more than 800 reports relating to fake emails purporting to giveaway free mobile phones.
The emails impersonate American telecoms companies and claim that recipients will receive a free smartphone if they complete a short survey as part of a loyalty programme.
The links in the emails lead to malicious websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
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A spokesperson for Action Fraud said: “If you have any doubts about a message, contact the organisation directly.
“Don’t use the numbers or address in the message – use the details from their official website.
“Your bank or any other official source will never ask you to supply personal information via email.”
If you have spotted a suspicious email forward it to the suspicious email reporting service at report@phishing.gov.uk.
If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno.
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