DIY chain B&Q has warned customers to be alert as a fake competition scam does the rounds on WhatsApp. People are being asked to enter a competition via the messaging app.
It centres around an apparent giveaway of 5,000 gas barbecues in relation to Father’s Day. People who are being targeted are told to click on a link, which has been made to look like it carries B&Q branding.
However, the link in the message will redirect people to a Russian website and will either put malware on your device and or ask targets for their bank details. Anyone getting the message should ignore and delete it, reports BirminghamLive.
In a statement on its Facebook page, B&Q said: “We’re aware of a fake message circulating via Whatsapp using B&Q branding in a Father’s Day competition. If you receive a suspicious WhatsApp message, which could be from a known or unknown contact, about a B&Q Father’s Day Contest 2022 offering the chance to win a Weber BBQ, we strongly recommend that you delete the message, do not click on any links and do not share with your contacts.
“We would never ask any of our customers to provide their full home address in order to enter a competition. If you believe you have been the victim of this scam, please consider reporting it to Action Fraud.”
Anyone who think they have been a victim of the scam should contact Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040.