Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) has issued a stern warning to users not to ignore a text message sent out on Wednesday, as it could indicate they are at risk of falling victim to scams.
The Metropolitan Police have contacted 25,000 individuals across the UK whose personal data may have been compromised by fraudsters via an online platform called 'Labhost'. Established in 2021, Labhost was used by over 2,000 criminals to create phishing websites mimicking banks, healthcare providers, and postal services. Around 70,000 people in the UK were duped, leading to theft of card numbers, pins, and passwords.
MSE advises that genuine messages from the Met were sent only between 16:00 and 18:00 on Wednesday 17 April, and will specify which website was impersonated. Legitimate messages will not contain links or attachments. Recipients should change passwords for sensitive accounts, check bank and credit card statements, and review credit reports for unusual activity.
MSE also warns Britons to be 'extremely suspicious' of unsolicited calls claiming to be from trusted organisations, as scammers may use stolen data to gain trust. The Met Police have set up a dedicated phone line (0207 230 8603) and email (cyberprotect@met.police.uk) for support. Anyone who suspects their bank details have been compromised should contact their bank immediately via the 159 hotline.
Scams should be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via their website. Suspicious emails can be forwarded to report@phishing.gov.uk, and scam texts to 7726.
