THE National Fraud Intelligence Bureau is probing a surge in reports of fraudsters offering a discount on television service provider subscriptions.

Fraudsters are cold-calling victims, purporting to be from a TV provider. Victims have been told that their subscription needs to be renewed, that part or all of the TV equipment has expired, and that they are due an upgrade on their equipment or their subscription. In order to falsely process the discount, the fraudster asks victims to confirm or provide their bank details. The scammers may also request copies of passports.

Fraudsters use the telephone numbers 08447 111444, 02035 190197, and 0800 151414. The voices sound feminine with an Asian accent.

To stay safe online, visit takefive-stopfraud.org.uk or cyberaware.gov.uk.