Everyone should be aware of the following scam, becoming more widespread as Christmas approaches.

A card through the door indicates that a delivery service was unable to deliver a parcel and gives a contact number. This is actually a premium rate number originating in Belize and anyone calling it is billed at least £15 by their telecoms provider, which takes a cut of the money made from the scam, or the proceeds of crime as it is called.

Unfortunately our UK telecoms providers claim they are powerless to stop the scam, from which they profit, so it’s down to their customers to look after themselves. Pass it on.