RAC warns not to get caught out by scammers fraudulently using its brand to steal personal details
The RAC is warning people to be wary of scam 'phishing' emails fraudulently using its brand to steal people’s personal details.
The motoring services company has been informed of numerous versions of emails offering the chance to win or be sent car emergency kits.
One email offered an exclusive car emergency kit containing first aid essentials, roadside tools, reflective safety gear and repair tools in exchange for completing a short survey. Crucially, the email included several American words and spellings – ‘jumper’ cables, ‘tire’ repair tools and emergency ‘flashlight’.
The RAC is not currently offering any free car emergency kits and is advising people not to respond to any emails like this.
The RAC says: “In most cases people should be able to work out from looking at the address that the sender is not the RAC and that the email is fraudulent. Hovering over the URL will usually reveal a dubious-looking address.
“Another tell-tale sign for spotting a fake email is the use of poor or odd spellings. Sometimes scammers also create fake social media profiles with fake incentives, but it’s important not to click on any hyperlinks.”
The RAC urges people to exercise caution with any unsolicited emails they receive offering prizes or big discounts. It says: “If an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.”
