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By *ENGUY OP Man
over a year ago
Hull |
Just to bring you up to date about my recent hassles about a Scam Site trying to extort lots of money from me!
In my case, immediately after the first approach call and despite the verbal threats not to, I contacted the Police who responded very quickly and had officers with me to guide me through the next call from the crooks, after which I changed my Mobile Number.
After taking a statement, I was assured that action would follow; that meant my case being forwarded to the National Crime Agency's Cyber Crime and Fraud Unit within 24 hours.
Police advised my bosses in turn to expect enquiry calls from the criminals as they tried to both contact and discredit me as Mobile contact was impossible. Those calls DID commence daily within 24 hours but work closed ranks behind me and hung up on every call!
The threats of violence towards me in those two calls were intense, such that I became scared of my own shadow and despite the Police saying the threats are always never carried out; these guys hide behind phone calls, paperless trails etc. Colleagues became concerned about my deteriorating mental state within 24 hours, I wasn't sleeping and eating, so they got me into my GP. I was placed on antidepressants and that's helped enormously as has the support of colleagues, friends and the Police.
On Tuesday, my case officer and the NCA advised me they'd enough details of the criminals identity to start action to close them down; that fits in with today's news about the raids by the NCA's Cyber Crime criminals across the UK.
I realise I have been lucky; I followed the Golden Rule of "not paying one penny!" and ignoring the climate of fear made by these "Phone Bullies". But so many other people DO pay up when faced with the threats of violence, especially believing the assurances that when fully paid off, the matter is over! No, the crooks prey on those they see as "a soft touch" and make contact again and again, for more money, making people's lives a misery!
Some victims, especially those who are elderly or live alone have moved house due to the intimidation! In extreme cases, faced with financial ruin, a few committed have even suicide!
One last point! People have asked me how did they get my details? Police say through several ways. Criminals are now posing as Marketing companies etc to purchase Mailing Lists and cold call people; they may have only the minimum of details but all they need to is have a name and phone number and that gets them started!
How many of us had had calls in recent months/years with a caller saying "I'm from So and So Company, our records show you've had a road accident/injury at work in the past 3 years/have had PPI/ can claim back Bank Account Fees - the list is endless!
Yes, it could be a genuine company! But it could easily be a Crook. DON'T GIVE THEM ANY DETAILS!
As for me, the calls to my work stopped on Tuesday just as the Police said it would; it's been quiet since and hopefully it should stay that way!
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