Customers of BT have been warned to be on their guard for a fake email that attempts to gain access to vital bank details. The con uses apparently genuine BT links and pressurises targets to disclose important information.
The warning - issued by consumer watchdog Which? - describes the sophisticated scam which attempts to convince users they may face action for missing bill payments. The fake email, complete with BT corporate branding, begins with ‘Avoid missing payments.’ It adds: "We wanted to let you know that your Direct Debit with us is no longer active. This means you don't currently have an automatic payment method set up to deal with your bills."
The email includes BT contact information, as well as links to the company’s online scam advice, privacy policy and terms and conditions. It is accompanied by a link to divert the customer to a fake website to organise a new direct debit that harvests personal and financial details.
But anyone who receives one of these emails is advised to check the small print. Which? reports the email originates from [info44269@internetbillingsystem.com]. It also requests any outstanding bills are paid to a Vodafone account, insisting: "Next bill due soon? Please pay another way. Just to note, if your next bill is due before the new Direct Debit is set up, you'll need to pay using the My Vodafone app or by calling 56677 free from your Vodafone mobile."
A BT spokesperson responded: "We advise our customers to remain vigilant against potential scams, especially phishing emails. If you are suspicious or uncomfortable with an email appearing to be from BT, please contact our customer service team for support."
Customers receiving this email or any other suspicious activity requiring personal banking details, should check if it has originated from their genuine provider. Any unusual activity should be reported to: report@phishing.gov.uk, or for the BT email to abuse@bt.com.
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