Home Bargains has issued a swift ‘be aware’ warning to all shoppers who use Facebook. The high-street discount store took to social media on Tuesday evening (May 7) to alert customers, amid emerging incidents of fraudulent activity where scammers have reportedly been using the company’s name in online deception schemes.
These fraudsters appear to be operating through fake Home Bargain accounts on Facebook, sending messages to individuals declaring that they are winners of a competition.
The store has however cautioned that these accounts are fabrications and called for patrons to exercise caution online.
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In an official statement on their Facebook page, a spokesperson further reassured customers that Home Bargains would never request their bank account details.
Their full message read: “Please be aware that there are currently fraudulent Facebook accounts claiming to be sent from Home Bargains, advising entrants as winners of our competitions. These messages do not come from Home Bargains – we have not and will never request customer’s bank details.”
Customers were recommended not to click on any dubious links or share personal information, and contact Action Fraud if they’ve already shared banking details. A shopper named Paul remarked under the post, “It did seem odd……so many winners chosen before the competition closed.”
A sentiment mirrored by Sally who expressed her gratitude, adding “Thanks for the heads up I though they seemed a bit odd.”
Several people replied to Sandra’s post, with Kate writing: “I thought so!” and Maureen adding: “Thank you for the warning.”
If you have been the victim of a scam, fraud or online crime (cybercrime), you can report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm).
Action Fraud is the national reporting center for fraud and cybercrime, collecting reports on behalf of the police in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
