Police Scotland is warning of an increase in fraudulent activity regarding Facebook.

The scam works whereby the victim is contacted by the scammer under the guise of claiming to be someone from their contacts list such as a friend of family member.

It is noticeable that there may be some general chat before the scammer asks for a loan of cash to purchase food stuffs or pay an outstanding bill.

They will thereafter provide banking details into which the cash is to be paid into. This request is generally complied with given that it is suspected as being a trusted source (friend or family).

There is generally a promise that the money will be paid back within a few days or next pay day. No monies are ever paid back and it is only when further enquiries / contact is made with the person requesting the cash that it becomes clear the original request did not come from them.

Advice

• Should you receive such a request, which in itself is out of the ordinary, do not make any payment until you are sure it is a genuine request.
• All efforts should be made to speak to your friend or family member making the request by phone prior to any cash being sent to ensure that it is a genuine request.
• Never ask for a direct phone number from the person requesting the cash. This may take you directly back to the scammer.

An information video on computer fraud is listed below. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCboSJqehhxgkofjcX8mvEdg

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.