Facebook Scam

Added on 07 September 2020

I have just received this information from Neighbourhood Watch

• The scam works whereby the victim is contacted by the scammer under the guise of claiming to be someone from their contacts list such as a friend of family member.
• It is noticeable that there may be some general chat before the scammer asks for a loan of cash to purchase food stuffs or pay an outstanding bill.
• They will thereafter provide banking details into which the cash is to be paid into.  This request is generally complied with given that it is suspected as being a trusted source (friend or family). There is generally a promise that the money will be paid back within a few days or next pay day.
• No monies are ever paid back and it is only when further enquiries / contact is made with the person requesting the cash that it becomes clear the original request did not come from them.

Advice

• Should you receive such a request, which in itself is out of the ordinary, do not make any payment until you are sure it is a genuine request.
• All efforts should be made to speak to your friend or family member making the request by phone prior to any cash being sent to ensure that it is a genuine request.
• Never ask for a direct phone number from the person requesting the cash.  This may take you directly back to the scammer.