YORKSHIRE Water is warning people to be on their guard against a telephone scam.
The company says it has received reports of customers who have had phone calls claiming their water bill is overdue or that their direct debit payment has failed – and asking for the 'correct' bank details.
The fraudulent phone call may come from a New Zealand area code, starting with +64 or 0064.
Jonathan Harding, of Yorkshire Water’s customer contact centre, said: “It’s really important to be vigilant when giving bank details over the phone. If you suspect that a call is not legitimate, then hang up. The easiest and safest way to make a payment to Yorkshire Water is via our online billing service or by calling our automated payment line on 0345 1 247 247.
“We’re working closely with Friends Against Scams, which is a National Trading Standards initiative that protects and prevents people from becoming victims of scams. If you do receive a phone call that you think is fraudulent, please report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the website at actionfraud.police.uk.”
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