Home Bargains has issued a warning to all of its customers on Facebook earlier today (September 30). The budget retailer put out a word of caution for every shopper to take care following recent scams online.
A spokesperson told customers: "Please be aware that there are currently fraudulent websites using Home Bargains branding to advertise their products for sale. These websites are not affiliated with Home Bargains and we strongly recommend that you do not click on any links unless it is posted from this official account.
"Please do not share any of your personal details with these fraudulent website. If you have we recommend that you contact your bank and report it to Action Fraud."
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The statement stressed that Home Bargains does have a website, which is https://home.bargains. It does not feature include '.com' or '.co.uk'.
Many people were quick to share their thoughts in the comment section. Meg wrote: "Thank goodness I don’t buy anything on line from anywhere I would rather go without if I can’t get it in the shops."
Caitlin claimed: "Sounds like this is what happened with the Range too!" Annie simply told Home Bargains: "Thank you."
How to report a scam if you think you're a victim:It can be very difficult to spot online scams these days, as criminals have become more sophisticated to blend in seamlessly with genuine shops online. Action Fraud has a guide to help those that find themselves targeted - and methods to help people avoid falling foul of scammers to begin with.
Many scammers operate fake websites, which will download viruses to your computer, or are designed to steal passwords or other personal information. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has the power to investigate and remove scam websites.
It's free to report a suspicious website to us and it only takes a minute. By reporting suspicious websites, you can help the authorities stop cyber criminals and protect others online.
You can report a website yourself or on somebody else's behalf - such as an elderly relative/friend. The form to fill out a report can be found here.
