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Inverness scam warning issued by police after fraudster targets business in Highland capital





Cash/money. Stock image.
Cash/money. Stock image.

A scam warning has been issued to retailers in Inverness after a fraudster was able to rip off a city business.

Police have urged businesses to be vigilant for so-called ‘ringing the changes’ scams after an incident in the Highland capital.

This type of fraud sees the crook attempt to confuse till operators by buying a small purchase using a large denomination bank note, but then creating confusion by adding extra items, requesting to cancel the transaction, or using sleight-of-hand techniques to hide some of the cash.

The confusion created can result in the scammer leaving with more money than they should and leaving the business out of pocket.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “It has come to our attention that there has been a recent report of a ‘ringing the changes’ fraud in Inverness.

“We are urging all retail businesses to exercise caution and vigilance in order to prevent falling victim to this type of fraudulent activity.”

They continued: “Ultimately, the scammer leaves with more money than they are owed, taking advantage of the confusion caused and leaving the cashier short-changed.

“If you or your staff encounter individuals attempting this fraudulent behaviour at your premises, contact the police immediately.

“For further information and guidance on how to protect yourself and your business from the ‘ringing the changes’ scam, please refer to the following link.”

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