01273004221

I received a call from a lady using the number 01322 586252, hailing from Dartford. She introduced herself as being part of the Fraud Action Team affiliated with "Trading Standards". According to her, my name and information have been flagged on various lists associated with time share companies globally. She also provided me with the number 01273 004221, claiming it’s the contact for Brighton Trading Standards along with a reference number. Apparently, they could assist with any issues related to time share calls!

I’ve just had a dodgy call from someone claiming to be "Gary Smith". He was spinning a tale about helping me claw back money I lost in a timeshare con through some legal action. Of course, he wanted me to fork out an upfront fee before anything could be done. Let me be clear-this is a scam through and through, so steer clear of it! He also mentioned another number to get in touch: 01322 586525. Best to avoid this one altogether.

I was led to believe that the individual I was conversing with was affiliated with something called THE FRAUD ACTION TEAM. Apparently, this organisation is “reportedly” compiling a case for a documentary set to air on the BBC in around eight months. During our chat, they enumerated various individuals and businesses under scrutiny. When I inquired how I might ascertain their legitimacy, the response was that they weren’t after my personal information or funds, but solely interested in my experiences. Supposedly, they have offices in Dartford, Northampton, and Brighton, and the number I was dialling hails from Brighton. I was provided with postal codes for Northampton, such as NN1 4BQ, yet I couldn’t locate that postcode. I was directed to 47 High Street too, but upon searching, that address eluded me. The High Street seems predominantly residential, hosting a handful of shops, but the numbering leaps from 35b to 53, and a Google Street View search yielded little else. I tried investigating the Brighton postcode BN2 4QN, which aligned with the Westergate Business Centre address I was given. On calling them at 01273 818999 to enquire if there’s a business called The Action Fraud Team present, the response was rather telling: “There are no tenants with that name in this business centre.” This was confirmed for the entire site, with no trace of that name appearing. Furthermore, regarding the Dartford postcode DA1 5FS, I discovered it corresponds to the Dartford Business Park, yet again, I couldn’t find any record of THE FRAUD ACTION TEAM. My advice? Carry out thorough research before engaging further. I'm content with the groundwork I've laid and have drawn my own conclusions about this call. I attempted to ring back for more information, but it just rang endlessly. One last point worth mentioning-if you conduct a Google search for Fraud Action Team, you end up with Action Fraud, the UK's national body for reporting fraud, should you fall victim to a scam. Is this a deliberate attempt to mislead, or just a twist of irony? It seems more applicable once the damage is done.

I've received calls from a telemarketing firm trying to connect folks with legal services for timeshare ownership exits. They tout a complimentary consultation and mention a solicitor will be arranged, but payment is expected. It's wise to tread lightly and think twice before sharing any personal details or making promises during these calls.