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The North East Crime Reduction Unit is urging the public to remain vigilant following a series of highly sophisticated frauds targeting customers of long-term service providers (Sky, Virgin, BT, etc.). Scammers are using convincing branding and technical manipulation to trick victims into ordering high-value hardware under the guise of "loyalty rewards." How the Scam Works The fraud typically begins with a cold call from someone claiming to be a company employee. To build trust, the caller may mention your long-standing history with the company and claim you are owed a refund or a free "thank you" gift—often an iPad. The Tactic Spoofed Communications: Fraudulent emails are sent using official-looking headers, footers, and even genuine FCA registration numbers.Screen Sharing: Suspects may ask to move the conversation to WhatsApp to "assist" you via screen sharing.The "Error" Loop: You are guided to third-party websites (like ID Mobile or Tesco Mobile) to "process" the gift by ordering a different device (e.g., an iPhone). When the wrong device arrives at your home, the scammers claim it was a "labelling error" and provide a QR code for you to return it.The Reality is you are not returning the phone to the retailer. The QR code redirects the package to the scammers. You are then left legally liable for a high-cost monthly contract for a device you no longer possess. The signs Requests to Screen Share: Genuine companies will never ask to view your phone or computer screen via WhatsApp or third-party apps to process a refund.Ordering via Third Parties: These companies will never ask you to visit a different provider's website (like Tesco Mobile) to receive related rewards.Pressure to "Return" Items: If you receive a device you didn't specifically buy, do not use a return label provided by a caller. Contact the retailer directly using a trusted number. How to Protect Yourself Hang Up and Call Back: If you receive an unexpected call, hang up. Wait five minutes to clear the line, then call the company back using an official number found on your monthly statement or the official website.Verify the Email: Scammers often use similar addresses like support@sky-orders.com. Genuine Sky emails will typically come from @sky.com.Never Share Codes: Never provide one-time passcodes or allow remote access to your device.If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report the matter to Police Scotland via 101. In the UK you can forward scam text messages to OFCOM on 7726 (free of charge), and forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk #northeastcrimereduction This messaging system is not for reporting crime as responses are not monitored 24/7. If you have time-critical information regarding the content of the above message, or if you wish to report any other non-urgent matter, please call 101. In an emergency, call 999.
Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City. The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function. Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community. These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues. They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working. | 
