Marks and Spencer shoppers have been warned over a clever scam that could lead to personal and bank details falling into the hands of fraudsters.
The sophisticated scam tricks shoppers into visiting a fake M&S website run by fraudsters which allows them to steal personal details and gain access to shoppers' bank accounts in the worst case scenario. The scam has been targeting shoppers at M&S recently.
Another method used by scammers is to send a fake invoice claiming that your payment has not been received, says Wethrift, an online discounts platform.
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The email will then ask shoppers to re-enter bank details or request a payment through a platform such as PayPal. The scammers will then save your payment details and could use it to access your bank account.
Nick Drewe, founder of Wethrift, said: "These misleading scam adverts are sending shoppers to fake websites that have nothing to do with M&S, luring them in with the opportunity to receive a £100 gift card.
“Once shoppers are directed to the fake website, the page will then ask for personal data, tricking shoppers into being potential victims of fraud.”
Experts have warned shoppers to not click on any links offering deals that look like they are from well-known websites. Links sent in scam emails could install malware on your device, making your personal information vulnerable, says Drewe.
Shoppers are warned to check website URLs and layouts carefully before entering personal details. Scammers have become extremely good at replicating websites but shoppers can carefully check the URL to check a site.
Websites with no ‘https.’ or locked padlock symbol on the bar at the top of the browser could be fraudulent.
If you feel you have been scammed the first thing to do it to immediately replace your cards and change your security details. If you have been scammed, your bank is obligated by law to refund you. The next step is to contact the UK's national fraud centre on 0300 123 2040 or visit the Action Fraud website.
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