Home Bargains issues urgent 'be aware' warning to millions of shoppers

Home Bargains has issued an urgent warning to all shoppers who own a Facebook profile. The budget retailer took to social media last night (May 7) to urge customers to "be aware".

It comes as fraudsters have been using Home Bargains' name in an attempt to scam people online. The worrying trend involves fake Home Bargain accounts messaging people on Facebook, claiming they have won a competition.

However, the store has announced these accounts are fake and urge shoppers be stay vigilant. A spokesperson added Home Bargains would never request customer's bank details.

Home Bargains full statement on Facebook reads: "Please be aware that there are currently fraudulent Facebook accounts claiming to be sent from Home Bargains, advising entrants as winners of our competitions. These messages do not come from Home Bargains - we have not and will never request customer's bank details.

"If you do receive these comments we strongly recommend that you do not click on any links and do not share any of your personal details. If you have already shared your bank details, we recommend that you contact Action Fraud to report this. Thank you, the HB team."

In the comment section, Paul replied: "It did seem odd......so many winners chosen before the competition closed." Sally echoed: "Thanks for the heads up I though they seemed a bit odd."

Sandra added: "I live by the adage that if it seems too good to be true, 9/10 times it is." Kate wrote: "I thought so!" Maureen penned: "Thank you for the warning."

If you’ve been the victim of a scam, fraud or online crime (cybercrime) you can report it to Action Fraud online or via 0300 123 2040 (Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm). Action Fraud is the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. It collects reports about fraud on behalf of the police in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.