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Heartless fraudsters targeting vulnerable Sefton residents over digital phone switch
SEFTON Council has issued a warning that fraudsters have been calling elderly residents in the area and telling them that they need to switch over their LifeLine service straight away because their landline is going digital.
LifeLine is a call button worn as a pendant or around the wrist that enables the wearer to contact and speak with Sefton's Service Monitoring Centre.
If the button is pressed, the call centre's dedicated Monitoring Team can then call a named responder, or in an emergency, get the appropriate services to respond. The service is often used by older people prone to falls or other incidents, and enables them to live independently. This service saves lives and is a vital lifeline, so it is shocking that scammers are targeting the uses of this service.
A Sefton Council spokesperson said:- "We have been contacted by 3 of the service's users who have been called by scammers, telling them they need to sign up ahead of the digital switchover and urging them to divulge their bank details. They have then become aggressive if the user doesn't agree to sign up, and wants to think about it, saying they have to sign up:- 'today.' Fortunately, the service users have not been scared into sharing their bank details and have contacted the Council."
This scam is similar to others our Newsroom has heard about as the old analogue telephone systems are being gradually replaced. If you get a call from someone saying your line needs to be replaced, don't engage with them. Call your phone operator on the number on the bill and ask them for more information.
The analogue telephone system swapover is due to be completed by the end of 2025.
We are told that Sefton Council currently liaising with phone companies on the switch to digital and will be in touch with anyone who needs to do anything about their LifeLine service.
The spokesperson from Sefton Council has added:- "Sadly, there are some heartless people out there who are willing to try and frighten older and vulnerable Sefton residents into sharing their financial details so they can steal their money. We urge anyone contacted and asked for any personal details like this, to hang up straight away and call us directly on:- 01519343785.”
You can use this link to learn more about LifeLine and other equipment and technology available to help adults in Sefton stay independent.
If you hear about any similar scams or receive a call trying to run this scam, please alert Sefton Council and also report the number to Action Fraud. Never give your personal information out to anyone who cold calls you.
If you have been a victim of a scam; contact your bank immediately and also contact Action Fraud on:- 03001232040.
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