Parents in Gedling borough are being warned about fraudsters taking advantage of young Fortnite gamers.
The game – which is played online – is currently one of the most popular in the world.
It involves players landing on an island, searching for weapons and killing one another until one player is left standing.
But scam-busters Action Fraud are warning parents in the borough that young players of the popular game are now being targeted by fraudsters.
Action Fraud has received reports, made mainly by parents on behalf of their children, of fraudsters placing an advert on a social media channel which claims that by following a web link and entering some information, they will receive free Vbucks (currency for the game).
Fraudsters will ask the victim for information about their account which will then allow them to log in and create fraudulent charges.
Fraudsters are also targeting victims in many other ways. These include asking for people’s phone numbers in return for Vbucks to then sign the victim up to a premium rate subscription service, selling access to other people’s Fortnite accounts, and offering VBucks for free then actually charging for it.
Action Fraud are also reporting a spike in fraudsters requesting Steam Cards as a way to gain upfront fees from unsuspecting young victims.
Victims are being called by fraudsters, claiming to be from well-known organisations. The victims are instructed to purchase Steam Cards in order to pay goods or services.
As with iTunes gift cards, the fraudster doesn’t require the physical Steam Card to redeem the value. Instead, the victim is asked to read out the serial code on the back over the phone.
Director of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith, said it’s vital that parents in the borough and youngsters playing the game online are able to spot the signs of fraud.
She said: “Fraudsters will go to great lengths to try to steal your money so it’s important that parents make their children aware of the threat of fraud online.
“If you are downloading or purchasing game add-ons, make sure you use the official website. You should never reveal your password or banking details to someone you don’t know, or be tempted to click on links to unknown.
“If you think you have been a victim of fraud, contact Action Fraud.”
How to protect yourself from online gaming fraud:
- Personal information – Always question requests for personal or financial information. The promise of ‘free’ vouchers or credits is a common tactic used by fraudsters to persuade people to give out sensitive, personal or financial details.
- Listen to your instincts – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Have the confidence to refuse unusual requests for personal or financial information.
- Every Report Matters – If you have been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Get the latest headlines, features and analysis that matter to you by signing up to our daily newsletter here. You can also get all your favourite content from Gedling Eye on WhatsApp. Click here to stay up to date with the latest news
If you have a news story for our team email us at news@gedlingeye.co.uk
Follow Gedling Eye on social media:
