Two firms scammed out of more than £350,000

by PA Media

Two businesses in Mid Ulster have been scammed out of more than £350,000.

Both the firms reported that their emails were hacked before just over £20,000 and £330,000 were made to bogus accounts.

Detective Inspector Paul Robinson said efforts are being made to have the money refunded.

“Unfortunately, two businesses, both acting in good faith, have lost significant amounts of money at the hands of unscrupulous fraudsters,” he said.

“Because of the variety of scams, from mandate fraud to phone and email scams to the more sophisticated scams where people become victims of romance or investment scams, everyone needs to be on their guard.

“Scams can be so convincing it is easy to be duped, which is why it’s more important than ever that everyone exercises caution.

“I can’t stress enough to never ever give out any personal or financial information to an unverified source via email or over the phone. If a supplier suggests they have changed an account number please ensure you are 100 per cent sure this is the case. Don’t take an email as proof.

“Please, be vigilant, and be on your guard.”

Anyone concerned they have been a victim of a scam either report the matter to Action Fraud via their website www.actionfraud.police.uk or by phoning 0300 123 2040. Police can be contacted on the non-emergency number 101.