SMS Text Message Scams across the Island
Published: 24 October 2024
The Isle of Wight Council is urging residents to be vigilant of fraudulent SMS messages being circulated.
There are various messages being sent circulated claiming to be from official bodies, including.
- Stating you are eligible for £900 from Household Support Fund
- Cost of Living Payments from the Department of Work and Pensions
- Winter heating subsidies for the UK Home Office
- Parking fines
These messages ask you to click on a link. This is a SCAM. Please DO NOT click any links or provide any personal information and bank details. Remember to be cautious of unsolicited messages offering money
When in doubt, contact us directly through Trading Standards trading.standards@iow.gov.uk You can also forward any suspicious texts to 7726. This is a free for UK mobile customers. Your mobile provider will investigate the number and may block it.
Stay vigilant and report any suspicious messages and please pass on this warning to friends and family. Together we can help protect our community.