robthill’s posterous

Subject: BT Scam 

I received a call from a 'representative' of BT, informing me that he was

dis-connecting me because of an unpaid bill. He demanded payment immediately

of £31.00 , or it would be £ 118.00 to re-connect at a later date.

The guy wasn't even fazed when I told him I was with Virgin Media, allegedly

VM have to pay BT a percentage for line rental!

I asked the guy's name - the very 'English' John Peacock with a very

'African' accent - & phone number - 0800 0800 152.

Obviously the fella realized I wasn't believing his story, so offered to

demonstrate that he was from BT. I asked how & he told me to hang up & try

phoning someone - he would dis-connect my phone to prevent this.

AND HE DID !! My phone was dead - no engaged tone, nothing - until he phoned

me again.  I think they keep their phone off the hook

Very pleased with himself, he asked if that was enough proof that he was

with BT. I asked how the payment was to be made & he said credit card, there

& then.

I said that I didn't know how he'd done it, but I had absolutely no

intention of paying him , I didn't believe his name or that he worked for

BT.

He hung up.

Did 1471 & phoned his fictitious 0800 number - not recognised.

I phoned the police to let them know , I wasn't the first! It's only just

started apparently but it is escalating.

Their advice was to let as many people know by word of mouth of this scam.

The fact that the phone does go off would probably convince some people it's

real, so please let as many friends & family aware of this.

Anyone receiving similar calls is reminded not to divulge their banking

details, and to report the call to their nearest police station on 0845 330

200

Cheers

Sharon Angus

Service Support Officer

Trading Standards Department

Level 3, Town Hall & Civic Offices

Westoe Road

South Shields

Tyne & Wear

NE33 2RL