Warning over 'holiday' phone scam

Residents in Lincolnshire have been falling victim to phone con men who claim to represent competitions, officials have warned.

Callers claim that by using their credit or debit card, householders have won a holiday in a prize draw.

The victim is asked for their card details to "verify the claim" and the account is then raided.

Trading Standards officers said people should never give out personal details over the phone.

Mark Keal, Divisional Manager for Fair Trading at Lincolnshire Trading Standards, said: "This particular scam seems to be catching people off guard, and they are giving their debit or credit card details out voluntarily.

"This can sadly mean that they are then not entitled to a refund under the terms and conditions of most banks, as this can be seen as being negligent.

"If you receive a call like this, contact your bank either in branch or on a phone number you know to be genuine and ask them to check the details."