Ooredoo has issued a warning regarding a fake prize draw notice, which people in Qatar are receiving in an attempt to defraud them.
The letter uses a fake “Qtel’ letterhead – despite the company changing its name earlier in the year – and other forgeries to fool people into believing they have won an international lottery based on their mobile number. The fraudsters follow up with phone calls, asking the “winner” to share bank details, and to send Hala phone credit to enable the company to transfer money to their account.
“Needless to say, Ooredoo is running no such international draw, and will never ask customers to share confidential information over the phone or e-mail. Ooredoo never asks for customers’ personal information in letters, e-mails or phone calls, as it already has this information on file,” a statement issued by the company said.
“Most importantly, Ooredoo – and all legitimate businesses – never ask winners to transfer money before they can claim their prizes. This tactic is only used by fraudsters, and has become increasingly prevalent in Qatar in recent years.”
As part of its warning, Ooredoo is asking customers not to give away personal information such as banking details or phone records to people they do not know. “Ooredoo advises customers not to respond the letters related to the draw, since there is no such international mobile number lottery and it is not connected to Ooredoo in any way.
“Scammers use a wide variety of methods to trick customers, and customers should be alert about not accepting prizes from draws that they have not entered.
“All official Ooredoo prize draws are announced through the company’s own channels, such as the company’s website at www.ooredoo.qa, social media accounts such as Facebook and Twitter, and publicised in the media.
“Ooredoo prize draws are also authorised by Qatar’s Ministry of Business and Trade, and held in their presence.”
As part of its efforts to crack down on fake prize draws and enhance the safety of its customers, Ooredoo has requested that customers immediately report fake prize draws to Ooredoo by dialling the Call Centre at 111 or by eTicket on the Ooredoo website at www.ooredoo.qa.
To reach as many customers as possible, Ooredoo has also issued an alert on its social media channels. “Ooredoo will continue to work with the authorities to stamp out prize fraud in the coming months, in order to provide the leading customer experience,” the statement added.
http://www.gulf-times.com/qatar/178/details/356886/ooredoo-issues-alert-on-fake-prize-draws
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