England World Cup Fans Targeted By African Scammers: Says HMRC, DVLA And Royal Mail
ENGLAND fans heading to the World cup need to have their wits about them – and, if possible, a small army of protection officers, a sword and a few quid to bribe Spanish and Russians. A communiqué from the Identity Fraud Communications Awareness Group (a ragtag group of public and private sector bodies) tells footy fans to watch out for scammers.
Says Neil Munroe, spokesman for the Identity Fraud Communications Awareness Group (or is he?)
“While news headlines have focused on the risk of violence for anyone heading to South Africa, we are urging consumers to be aware of the potential fraud scams which might give them a financial hangover when they get back. Unfortunately, football fans will stand out from the crowd, making them an easy target for criminals. However, with a little extra vigilance we still believe people can enjoy the trip of a lifetime and avoid becoming victims of fraud.”
The golden rule is to protect your data.
Members of the Identity Fraud Communications Awareness Group include:
DVLA – In 2007, the The Northern Ireland has lost the personal details of 6,000 people.
HMRC – Lost computer disks containing confidential details of 25 million child benefit recipients in 2007
Royal Mail – Postwatch estimates 14.4m letters are lost every year
Financial Services Authority – Keeps an eye on bankers
And many more…
Credit card agencies – because they never make mistakesKeep ‘em peeled. Never mind the suits, watch out for the Africans…
Posted: 21st, May 2010 | In: Sports Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
