Beware the fraudsters’ PPI scam

Rutherglen and Cambuslang residents are being urged to stay vigilant against scammers following the announcement of a deadline to reclaim PPI.

People seeking compensation over mis-sold payment protection insurance will have to make their claims before August 29, 2019.

The final deadline has been set by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in an effort to draw a line under one of the banking industry’s biggest scandals.

However, just as many could see themselves falling prey to scammers offering their‘no win, no fee’services, South Lanarkshire Council’s consumer and trading standards team is dealing with more and more cases of consumers caught in such a net.

In some cases, thousands of pounds have been paid out to fraudsters who subsequently disappear without trace.

Councillor John Anderson, chair of community and enterprise resources, explained:“Of particular concern are scammers who trawl for their business via text. Often you are asked to send bank or card details, along with other confidential information. Sometimes a‘fee’is requested up front, and on occasion some have sent cash through the post.

“Never send cash by post, it is highly unlikely you will ever see a return.

“If you genuinely believe you are owed PPI, contact your bank, building society, Money Advice or Citizens Advice Centre in the first instance. If your claim is ultimately rejected then the Financial Ombudsman can advise of means of appeal or redress. None of this costs any money and never should.”