Young gamers are being scammed out of money through Fortnite, often running into hundreds of pounds.
Between 1 April 2017 and 31 March 2018, Action Fraud received 35 reports of Fortnite related fraud, with a total loss of £5,119 – that’s an average of £146 per victim.
In some cases, the gamer has seen an advert on a social media channel which claims that by clicking on a web link and entering information, they will receive free Vbucks, which is a currency for the game.
Fraudsters will then encourage the victim to give them information about their account which will then allow them to log in and create fraudulent charges.
Fraudsters are targeting victims in many other ways too.
These include asking for phone numbers in return for Vbucks to then sign the victim up to a premium rate subscription service, selling access to other people’s Fortnite accounts, and offering VBucks for free, then actually charging for it.
Steam digital gift cards too are being used to target young gamers. Action Fraud received 37 reports of Steam Card fraud, with a total loss of £44,455.98 – again an average of £123.88 per victim.
Victims are being called by fraudsters, claiming to be from well-known organisations. The victims are then instructed to purchase Steam Cards to pay for tax refunds, PPI refunds and for providing anti-virus software.
As with iTunes gift cards, the victim is asked to read out the serial code on the back over the phone.
Director of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith, said it is vital that both parents and those playing games online are able to spot the signs of fraud, as fraudsters will go to great lengths to try to steal money.
“It is also important that parents make their children aware of the threat of fraud online.
“If you are downloading or purchasing game add-ons, make sure you use the official website. You should never reveal your password or banking details to someone you don’t know, or be tempted to click on links to unknown,” she said.
If you think you have been a victim of fraud, contact Action Fraud.
HMRC, or any other government department, will never ask for payment in the form of Steam Cards, or any other gift card, such as iTunes.
Always question requests for personal or financial information. The promise of ‘free’ vouchers or credits is a common tactic used by fraudsters to persuade people to give out sensitive, personal or financial details.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If you have been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, report it online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
