Warning as new phone scam targets those living in Cheltenham

Police are warning those living in Cheltenham to be vigilant following reports of a scam involving text messages.

A number of reports have been received over recent days of a new scam where offenders text the victim’s phone number saying they are their son and are using a new phone and number due to damaging their previous one.

The scammer has then engaged in a text message conversation with the victim and when asked if everything is okay stated that they needed money to pay for the invoice.

Depending on the response given the victim will then be asked if they could pay for the invoice. If the victim agrees the scammer will then ask for an amount of money to be sent to a bank account.

Officers believe that this scam is aimed at those of higher or middle class due to their tendencies to have disposable income readily available as opposed to elderly or vulnerable victims.

There are a number of things that you can do to prevent mobile phone fraud and details can be found here: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/a-z-of-fraud/mobile-phone-fraud

If you have been a victim of this scam please let us know by completing the following online form or calling 101: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/