Telephone Scams Alert

We have been made aware that telephone scammers are contacting people across Lincolnshire while pretending to be from Age UK Lincolnshire.

These callers may try to persuade you to hand over personal information, bank details, money or try to sell you a service or product. Please remember that Age UK Lincolnshire will never cold-call you to sell products or services or ask for your bank details over the phone.

If you receive a call claiming to be from us and something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts. It is always okay to end the call and contact us directly using a trusted telephone number to check whether the call was genuine.

What should you do if you think you've been targeted?

• If you have paid money, shared your bank details or given someone remote access to your computer or device, contact your bank immediately.
• If you feel unsafe or threatened, call 999.
• Then contact us, we can help you understand what has happened and talk you through any next steps.

You can call us Monday to Friday on 01522 696 000 if:

• You think you have been scammed.
• You are worried about a suspicious call, text, email, letter or doorstep caller.
• You have shared personal or bank details.
• You would like advice on staying safe from scams.

Top tips to protect yourself from telephone scams

• If a caller claims to be from a trusted organisation, hang up and contact that organisation using a number you know is genuine.
• Don't be embarrassed to hang up, say no or end the conversation.
• Never feel pressured into making a decision immediately.
• Never give out your bank details, PINs or passwords over the phone.
• Be cautious if someone asks you to transfer money or buy gift cards.
• Talk to a trusted friend or family member if you're unsure.

Remember: if something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.