Warning Issued Over Scammers Posing as Company Executives

In recent months, a surge of reports has emerged regarding a suspicious phone number, 07520 643719. Many individuals from various workplaces have come forward, sharing unsettling experiences linked to this number, warning others of the tactics employed by those behind it.

A Pattern of Deceit

The comments left by users indicate a disturbing pattern: the individual behind the number consistently poses as a high-ranking company official, often a CEO or CFO. One user, writing on 27 October 2022, recounted how the number was used to spoof an email from their boss, leading to a conversation on WhatsApp where money and personal information were clearly the targets.

Cautioning others, one user urged, "Block this number. It’s all a ploy to get your cash." This sentiment echoed throughout many of the reports, highlighting the need for vigilance when dealing with unexpected communications from so-called superiors.

Gift Card Scams on the Rise

A common thread in the accounts is the request for gift cards. Multiple commenters detailed incidents where they were asked to purchase Google Play cards and share the serial numbers. A comment from 8 January 2021 stated, "They posed as my CEO and asked me to buy cards online. Do not engage with this number!"

The scam, apparently not limited to one workplace, crossed organisational boundaries. For instance, on 29 October 2020, a user was contacted by someone claiming to be the CFO, requesting they buy gift cards. "They are fraud scammers - just avoid them entirely," warned another participant.

Local Employees on Alert

Many employees have expressed feeling overwhelmed by the sophistication of these tactics. One person recalled an exchange that began with an email that appeared authentic. "I thought it was my boss," they said. "But then they asked for personal information and gift card serials. It was clear it was a setup and I realised it was a scam."

Users like the one on 11 August 2020 noted how the calls came from apparently trustworthy sources, merely amplifying the distress. One commenter recounted, "Received an email supposedly from my boss asking for my location. When he called, it turned into a request for gift cards."

The Importance of Awareness

As employees navigate their work environments, the need for awareness becomes ever more critical. Many workplace leaders have begun holding informational sessions to educate staff about these scams. By sharing personal narratives, employees can arm each other with vital knowledge.

In September and October of 2020 alone, a string of comments arose regarding the 07520 643719 number, with multiple individuals declaring it a fraud. "Ignoring this number is the best course of action," one alerted.

Cloned Identities

The situation has escalated to the point where users have reported that the scammer is even cloning the identities of real employees. A troubling post from 14 September 2020 revealed that someone had taken a colleague's details and portrayed themselves as that employee. "This is a serious issue – we must be vigilant against identity theft," the user implored.

In an era where remote work is increasingly common, the fusion of communication across emails and messaging platforms can make it harder to verify someone's identity. Workers are now tasked with becoming more cautious and recognising signs of potential scams before engaging.

Conclusion: Stay Aware

In light of these alarming reports, the advice remains clear: if you receive communication from 07520 643719, or any number behaving similarly, refrain from responding and consider blocking it immediately. As highlighted by those affected, the best offence in counteracting scams like these is to remain educated and aware.

The message is urgent: Stay vigilant, inform your colleagues, and never hesitate to report suspicious activities. The risks associated with such scams can be far too high to disregard.