Mobile phone scam

[shane white]

Not really bush-craft related, but this is the text of an email I received this morning. I guess we've all seen things like this before, but there's nothing wrong with being cautious.

Subject: Please pass this on to everyone you know who owns a mobile.
Dear All

If you receive a phone call on your mobile from any person, saying that he or she is a company engineer, or telling that they're checking your mobile line, and you have to press #90 or #09 or any other number, end this call immediately without pressing any numbers.

There is a fraud company using a device that once you press #90 or #09 they can access your 'SIM' card and make calls at your expense.
Forward this message to as many colleagues, relatives and friends as you can, to stop it.

Many thanks for your time regarding this matter, take care and regards.

Phil Corris
Police Constable/Crime Prevention Officer

 

[SimonM]

Thanks for the heads up!

 

[scanker]

It's partly true, but is generally regarded as a hoax as it doesn't work on mobile phones as outlined.

http://www.snopes.com/fraud/telephone/jailcall.asp

 

[shane white]

Fair enough, but since the original sender is a genuine officer of the Lancashire Constabulary it seemed reasonable to pass it on. If it's a hoax, you won't get any calls; if it isn't, you'll know what to do if you do.

 

[scanker]

He's appeared on all the versions I've seen too - it appears he was taken in as well. The other ones I've seen have had his contact details.

 

[Tadpole]

Fair enough, but since the original sender is a genuine officer of the Lancashire Constabulary it seemed reasonable to pass it on. If it's a hoax, you won't get any calls; if it isn't, you'll know what to do if you do.

From an email conversation with PC Corris, in response to my question "did you send this email"

Good afternoon Mr Tadpole, [name edited]

No I didn't send it, a really long story dating back over five years but the best thing to do is reach for the delete button.

I hope this has not caused you any problems, regards,

Phil Corris
Police Constable Phil Corris

 

[Humpback]

http://www.snopes.com

(as recommended above). Saves a lot of wasted time from well meaning spam I receive through work. Its also has other categories to make me chuckle. Put it in my 'favorites' (sic) ages ago.
Alan

 

[drewdunnrespect]

cheers for the heads up

 

[mortalmerlin]

It sounds like it's not a real mail to me.

Just like all the chain mails warning of everything from a virus to your mother having an accident within 7 days, they spread themselves by making false claims. If there was a problem with the SIM card on your phone (which would probably be specific to one type of phone only) the operator of your network would contact you not the police. I do not think any mail from the police would start, pass this on to all....