Scammers pretending to be from Carphone Warehouse are targeting people under the pretence of selling a new mobile phone.
How it’s done:
1. The scam begins with a cold call from a landline number, pretending to be a Carphone Warehouse salesperson with a tempting deal to upgrade to the latest iPhone.
2. The scammer asks for your email address to send details of the so-called promotion (this is a tactic to convince you the offer is legitimate, while also stealing your email address).
The email address they’ll use is likely to look like the company's email, but usually has a typo or formal additions like ‘org’ or ‘gov’ after it.
3. The next step is to take your details (your full name, date of birth, address and bank details).
4. They’ll then use the details to order multiple phone contracts in your name for different, high-end phones (from providers like Tesco Mobile, O2 and EE).
5. When the phone arrives, you’ll open it up and see that it's an old model, they'll then contact you again (usually through WhatsApp) and say they've made a mistake and that you'll need to post it to the new address.
6. After that, they'll be waiting at the address to collect the parcel and proceed to cut all contact - leaving you with a contract in your name (sometimes multiple contracts) no phone and a damaged credit score.
For more information on how to protect yourself online, please visit Get Safe Online for free expert advice.