Scam Alert: The Washing Machine Warranty Refund Scam Sweeping the UK
In recent weeks, a wave of scam calls has been targeting UK residents, with the phone number 02045203540 at the centre of the storm. The scam, which revolves around fake refunds for washing machine warranties, has left many people frustrated and concerned. Here’s what you need to know about this growing issue.
The Scam in Detail
The calls typically follow a similar pattern. A caller, often with an Asian accent and using an English name like “Amanda” or “Jonathan,” claims that the recipient is due a refund of £119 for an overpayment on a washing machine warranty. The caller may even know the victim’s name and address, adding a layer of credibility to their story.
However, the catch is clear: to receive the refund, the victim is asked to provide bank details. Many who have engaged with the scammers report being pressured to share account numbers, sort codes, or even IBAN details. Those who refuse or question the legitimacy of the call are often met with hostility, insults, or abrupt hang-ups.
One victim, who spoke to the BBC anonymously, said: “They knew my name and address, which made it seem real at first. But when I asked for a cheque instead of giving my bank details, they got aggressive and hung up. It’s frightening how convincing they can be.”
A Growing Problem
Comments left on a popular phone number review website reveal that this scam has been operating since at least February 2022, with a surge in reports throughout March. Many victims report receiving multiple calls from the same number, often at inconvenient times, such as early mornings or late evenings.
One user wrote: “They called me six times in 48 hours. It’s relentless. I blocked the number, but they just keep coming back with different ones.” Another added: “It’s not just annoying—it’s harassment. These people are preying on the vulnerable.”
The scammers appear to be using a variety of tactics to evade detection. Some calls are silent, while others feature background noise or distorted voices to mimic a legitimate call centre. In some cases, the scammers even claim to represent well-known companies like Domestic & General or AEG, further muddying the waters.
How to Protect Yourself
The Telephone Preference Service (TPS), which allows individuals to opt out of unsolicited sales calls, offers some protection. However, scammers often ignore such regulations, making it difficult to stop the calls entirely.
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Never share personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller’s identity.
- Be sceptical of unsolicited refund offers, especially if they require immediate action or sensitive details.
- Use call-blocking tools to filter out known scam numbers. However, be aware that scammers often use spoofed numbers, making this a temporary solution.
- Report suspicious calls to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre.
A Call for Action
Many victims have expressed frustration at the lack of action to stop these scams. One commenter urged others to contact their MPs, saying: “Scams are a multi-billion-pound industry. The more people who raise this issue, the more likely it is that something will be done.”
Experts agree that tackling the problem requires a coordinated effort. Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, has been working with telecom companies to identify and block scam calls. However, the use of spoofed numbers and international call centres makes this a challenging task.
Conclusion
The 02045203540 scam is a stark reminder of the lengths to which fraudsters will go to exploit unsuspecting individuals. While awareness and vigilance can help protect you, it’s clear that more needs to be done to stop these calls at their source.
If you receive a suspicious call, remember: hang up, block the number, and report it. And if you’ve been affected by this or any other scam, don’t hesitate to seek support from organisations like Citizens Advice or Action Fraud.
Stay safe, and don’t let the scammers win.
Have you been targeted by this scam? Share your experience in the comments below.