With the festive season fast approaching and the number of packages and parcels being delivered significantly increasing, Cardiff Trading Standards is warning residents to be vigilant of a new Christmas postal scam which could leave them £315 worse off.
The mail scam, which has already been identified and confirmed by Royal Mail, involves a company called PDS or Parcel Delivery Service. Cardiff residents may find that in the coming weeks a card could be posted through their doors from this company stating that they were unable to deliver a parcel and that the householder needs to contact them on a premium rate 0906 number’.
Residents are warned not to call this number as the company is not genuine and calling it – even for a moment – could result in you being charged £315, which will be added to your next phone bill.
Councillor Judith Woodman, Executive Member for Housing, Communities and Social Justice, said: “Unfortunately, it’s that time of year when scams like this one can become more prevalent owing to the sheer volume of parcels and packages being delivered.
“It’s important for everyone to remain vigilant, especially in the build up to Christmas, to ensure that they don’t get stung by this or another scam. If you are not expecting a delivery, just be cautious as it may be someone trying to cheat you out of your money – especially if they are asking you to contact them on a premium rate number.”
If you do receive a card with these details, please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655.
For further information on scams, including reporting suspicious issues and advice on how to protect yourself, please visit www.direct.gov.uk or contact Consumer Direct on 0808 156 6736. General information can also be found on the Cardiff Council website www.cardiff.gov.uk.
