Identity Theft from Bogus BT Call

A caller rings up saying they are from BT and they're calling because your account is in arrears.  They ask for bank or credit card details then and there to clear the account.  If the account holder refuses to give their credit card information or asks for proof, the criminal says that they will disconnect the phone line then and there.

Once the victim puts the phone down, the caller stays on the line, thus giving the impression that the line has been disconnected.

BT have put out a warning as this scam is currently happening all over the UK.  See the BBC news item.

Advice

• Never give your bank or credit card information out on the phone if you have not initiated the call
• Although BT does sometimes call customers about outstanding bills, it never disconnects the line during the call