News

Bolton florist fraudsters steal phone book in bid to con customers out of thousands with bogus refunds

By Glen Keogh

A meticulous scam involving a Bolton florist could see recent customers conned of thousands unless they remain vigilant.

Two men walked into Westwells Florist on Deansgate yesterday afternoon and stole an order book that contained personal details, including the telephone numbers, of customers.

Since the theft, men have phoned customers posing as the florists to tell customers they have been overcharged.

They have then asked the customers for their bank details so they can be refunded – but luckily, it seems no-one has yet fallen for the scam.

Police Constable Michael Wardale, based at Bolton police station, said: “The order book contained information on customers who had bought flowers between January and May this year.

“It looks like the offenders are simply scrolling through the book, picking and choosing who to phone, asking them for their details and trying to scam them out of money.”

The police are urging anyone who has purchased flowers this year from the shop not to give their bank details to anyone saying they are from Westwells or anywhere else.

Worried staff said they would never ask for such details.

Anyone who has been contacted, or has information,  should phone police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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