VIVA, Bahrain issued a warning to customers cautioning them on a call scam that has targeted some mobile phone users in Bahrain.
VIVA customers are being contacted from various phone numbers both local and international, and are being told that they have won large amounts of money “in a raffle or competition”. In order to collect their prize, the customer is asked to purchase some Prepaid recharge vouchers worth a specific amount of money, and send the voucher numbers back to the caller via SMS message or to relay other personal and private information to the caller.
A VIVA statement, issued on Tuesday, warned customers about the ongoing scam, and advised them to exercise care and vigilance whenever asked to share personal or private information with strangers.
“This is a scam targeting our much valued customers,” said Andrew Hanna, VIVA Chief Commercial Officer.
“In line with VIVA’s policies, and in the interest of customer safety and maintaining a high standard of service, all VIVA promotions are clearly and publicly communicated through the VIVA Call Centre (124) and on VIVA’s official website, www.viva.com.bh, and all such offers would strictly follow Bahrain’s laws governing promotions,” added Hanna.
The statement added that VIVA would like to invite its customers to always check with the VIVA Call Centre or website to remain updated with all of VIVA’s offers and to clarify any doubts about a particular promotion. VIVA officials further advised its customers never to give out personal details such as bank account numbers.