Martin Lewis has cautioned readers that individuals claiming to be from his MoneySavingExpert.com website team would never make unsolicited calls or visit homes, following reports of complaints from readers. The MSE founder emphasized that any such calls or visits are fraudulent, stating that his website does not engage in cold calling or door-to-door sales. This warning comes in light of the news about an upcoming £200 payment for state pensioners born before 1959.
Addressing the issue, Martin Lewis expressed his disapproval of cold calling practices and highlighted the importance of conducting thorough market comparisons rather than pressuring individuals into buying products over the phone or in person. He advised individuals to decline unsolicited offers related to energy savings or other services and emphasized that any claims linking MoneySavingExpert or himself to such calls are false.
In response to a reader’s experience with persistent calls from a purported MoneySavingExpert representative offering energy tariff quotes, Lewis urged individuals to block unwanted numbers through their phone settings and recommended registering with the Telephone Preference Service to prevent receiving marketing calls. To deter door-to-door salespeople, individuals can download a free “no cold callers” sign from the MSE website.
In cases of suspected scams or fraud, individuals are encouraged to report them to Action Fraud or local authorities. Additionally, individuals are advised to forward scam emails to the appropriate authorities and refrain from contacting numbers provided by potential scammers. If concerned about unauthorized access to bank accounts, individuals should contact their bank immediately and utilize the hotline provided to connect with their financial institution.
For individuals in Scotland, reporting scams can be done through Advice Direct Scotland or Police Scotland. Suspected scam calls should be terminated promptly, and individuals are advised to verify the authenticity of the caller independently. Lastly, reporting suspicious websites to the National Cyber Security Centre is recommended to combat online fraud and phishing attempts.
By following these precautions and reporting suspicious activities promptly, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to scams and fraudulent schemes.