Grieving families are been targeted by scammers who are pretending to be funeral directors, warns Trafford Council Trading Standard officers.
They say people have been contacted by criminals claiming to be from a bereavement service.
The crooks are say that payment for their upcoming funeral has declined and that they would need to make another card transaction over the phone in order for the funeral to go ahead.
The scammers threatened to cancel the funeral if payment is refused.
Cllr Mike Freeman, Executive Member for Public Safety, Governance and Reform, said:
I’m appalled by this is a vile and sickening crime – and if any resident is contacted by these scammers they should contact the police immediately.
Calls like this would never happen, so do not, under any circumstances, give your personal details over the phone to strangers.
Always take a moment to check things out.
Crimes like these are always distressing for the victim, but during a time of national crises, makes this all the more despicable.”
Cllr Freeman asked residents to be extra vigilant and report any concerns to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
Posted on Friday 1st May 2020