Bogus callers pretend to work for BT

Bogus callers are scamming telephone users by claiming to work for communications company BT.

The caller claims that due to an unpaid telephone bill the service will be disconnected unless a fee of £31 is paid immediately.

He states a reconnection fee of £118 will have to be paid to be reconnected.

In one recent case reported to the trading standards department of Milton Keynes Council the caller was reportedly very convincing as he appeared 'unfazed' when told the resident was with a rival telephone service.

Matt Sheppard, trading standards officer said: "The bogus caller claimed in this instance that even though the resident was with Virgin Media, this firm still has to pay BT a percentage for line rental.

"The intention of the caller is to get hold of your bank details so our advice is never to do this.

"He may even give a genuine BT telephone number and invite you to call it. He would offer for you to call the number and say he will disconnect the phone to show it is dead proving he is calling from BT.

"This is all part of the scam. The cutting off of the line is very simple. He stays on the line with the mute button on and you can't dial out but he can hear you trying so when you stop trying he cuts off and immediately calls back.

"You could almost be convinced."

For help and advice about this and any other potential scams call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 for advice.

Residents who are affected by this scam should also report the matter to OFCOM on 0207 981 3040.