AN URGENT warning has been issued over sick tricksters using fake condolence books for the Queen con Brits in mourning.
The criminals are trying to trick unsuspecting royal fans mourning Her Majesty’s death into giving them their personal and financial details.
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The Co-Operative Bank has sent an email to customers urging caution as online scammers try to take advantage of people.
In the message, signed by the bank’s chief executive, Nick Slape, customers were to be vigilant.
He said: “Like many, we are incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.
“As the longest-serving monarch in British history, Her Majesty’s dedication to public service will be admired and remembered by all.
“On behalf of everyone at The Co-operative Bank, we offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family for their loss.
“The official state of mourning across the UK will remain in place until the Queen’s funeral on September 19. As a sign of respect, our branches and contact center will be closed on that day.
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“Even in these sad times, some criminals could commit fraud attempts by using fake messages regarding travel and accommodation in London, charitable donations or to encourage you to sign an online condolence book.
“Their goal is to steal your personal and financial information.
“Please be vigilant and if you think you have been scammed please let us know.”
Essex Police have issued a reminder on where you can sign condolence books.
How to stay safe from scammers
Regularly check your bank accounts for any unusual activity
Check your credit report monthly to make sure no one has purchased products in your name
Set up phone alerts from your bank that let you know when money is spent
Make sure you don’t use your bank password or PIN for anything else
Avoid ATMs that look like they’ve been tampered with
Keep track of your card, including in restaurants and bars
Check email address and websites carefully
Do not use public Wi-Fi for transactions
Always disconnect from your bank account
Invest in a shredder to get rid of mail and old bank statements
If you lose your card, cancel it immediately. Don’t wait to see if he shows up
Never give out your bank details over the phone.
Beware of what you post on social media, sometimes scammers call your profile for information
If a company pressures you to make an investment or says an opportunity is time-limited, it’s usually a scam. Legit companies will never force you to make a decision
They said that although there are no condolence books in the royal residences, there is an official option on the royal family’s website.
A spokesperson said: “There will be opportunities to sign condolence books at various town halls and other locations across the UK. Please check with your local authority.”
Sun readers can leave their own personal tribute in our online condolence book.
Fraudsters in the UK stole £753.9m in the first half of 2021 alone.
That means criminals walked away with more than four million dollars in stolen cash every day.
Criminals rely on people who think “it won’t happen to me” and don’t know the new ways they have to scam people.