The Ulster Farmers’ Union are warning the farming community to be vigilant following reports that fraudsters are obtaining farmers bank details and defrauding them by using a number of scamming methods.
UFU deputy president Barclay Bell said; “According to the banking sector, the number of fraudsters contacting farmers is on the rise and with businesses being affected, vigilance must be increased. The fraudsters are contacting farmers claiming they represent their bank and are using a number of tactics to trick them into disclosing their account details, with the intent of illegally securing and using the funds in that account. These unscrupulous individuals are very convincing and may have already obtained important information like who you bank with and other details regarding your account, which is why we are encouraging everyone to be vigilant.
“It is vital that each individual is aware of online security threats, can spot attempted fraud and take steps to avoid this. Banks will never phone or email asking for online password information, nor will they ever ask for an individual to make a payment over the phone using an online account. In addition, legitimate companies, including banks, will never ask customers for all of their security log-on details either over the phone or by email. Furthermore, telephone calls asking for these details will not be from the bank or company, therefore the person calling is likely to be a fraudster.
Barclay concluded: “The UFU would strongly advise anyone who receives such a call not to engage with the caller, put the phone down and call their bank in the usual way. Always take care that the line is clear before you make a call. You should exercise great caution as the caller can leave the phone line open and trick you into believing you are phoning the Bank. You should phone the Bank using a different phone or phone someone else you know and speak to them before trying to phone the Bank. If it is convenient, call in person at your bank to discuss your account if you are worried or alternatively notify your local police station.”
