Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
Scam callers have been causing serious harm by targeting vulnerable individuals and stealing their savings. The issue has become more prevalent since the pandemic began.
What steps her Department is taking to tackle scam callers, given that many constituents report an influx of fraudulent or scam telephone calls during the pandemic, often targeting elderly or vulnerable individuals posing as Government agencies, telecom companies, banks, or pension providers?
The Government is working closely with industry, regulators, law enforcement, and consumer groups. Since its launch last year, the National Cyber Security Centre has shut down over 50,000 scams and taken down almost 100,000 websites. The economic crime victim care unit works to ensure victims are not left out of pocket and encourages reporting suspicious emails and texts.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
▸
Context
Scam callers are targeting elderly and vulnerable individuals through fraudulent telephone calls, posing as Government agencies or financial institutions.
Does my hon. Friend agree that we must clamp down on this dreadful criminal activity and ensure there is somewhere victims can go to immediately for help?
The Government is working with the banking sector to ensure victims are not left out of pocket, and encouraging reporting suspicious emails and texts. Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and texts to 7726 for swift action.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy