Among the latest frauds and scams, online shopping websites are being used by fraudsters to advertise drones of various specifications for competitive prices which do not exist. Drones are personal flying devices that often carry cameras and can be navigated remotely by smart phones or controllers.
Fraudsters are capitalising on their recent popularity and advertising non-existent drones lower than the recommended retail price to tempt buyers. After victims agree to purchase the drone, the fraudsters request payment to be paid via bank transfer saying that it will quicken the delivery process. After transferring the money the buyers never receive the drone and the fraudster blocks the victim to prevent further conversation.
How to protect yourself? The official police Action Fraud reporting centre suggest that you:
– Check the validity of the post.
– Avoid paying by bank transfer and instead use an online payment option such as PayPal, which helps to protect you.
– Check feedback online by searching the associated phone numbers or email addresses of the seller. Feedback will give you useful information about recent transactions other buyers have made.
– If the item is below market value consider whether this is an opportunity too good to be true.
To report a fraud and receive a police crime reference number, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. Sign up for free to Action Fraud Alert to receive direct, verified, accurate information about scams and fraud in your area by email, recorded voice and text message.
