Ferguslie Park Housing Association (FPHA) has issued a warning after tenants reported receiving calls from someone claiming to be from the association regarding outstanding repair works.
Advice for tenants
In a statement shared on social media, FPHA said: "We have been made aware that some tenants have received a call from someone claiming to be from the association regarding outstanding repair works. If you are ever unsure about the authenticity of a call, hang up immediately and contact our office immediately on 0141 887 4053."
The registered social landlord has encouraged tenants to verify a caller's identity independently by asking for a name and reference number, ending the conversation, and phoning the housing association's official number to confirm if they are genuine.
Be suspicious of unprompted repair calls
FPHA said people should "be suspicious of unprompted repair calls" and added that contractors carry identification. It recommended asking any tradesperson for photo ID and a job reference number.
The housing association has also cautioned tenants against allowing scammers to pressure or rush them into arranging access.
Councillor's response
Councillor Kenny MacLaren, an SNP representative for Paisley Northwest, said: "It is truly despicable that scammers are now using the name of a local housing association to try to scam their tenants. The advice issued by Ferguslie Park Housing Association should be followed – never give out personal information or allow someone you don't know, who has no identification, into your home. I would also urge anyone who receives a scam call to report it to the police – these people prey on the most vulnerable and need to be stopped."
The advice from Police Scotland is to stop, hang up immediately, and report the incident to Police Scotland by calling 101 or report it to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
