Fraudsters target seafarers’ family members on Merchant Navy ships

Fraudsters are currently targeting family members of seafarers working on Merchant Navy ships, according to recent reports. These scammers often exploit the difficult circumstances that many seafarers face while at sea, such as limited access to communication and challenges with financial transactions. By posing as representatives of the shipping companies, these fraudsters attempt to deceive family members into sharing personal information or sending money under false pretenses. These scams can cause significant financial and emotional distress for both the seafarers and their families.

The scammers typically target family members through phone calls or messages, claiming that the seafarers are in trouble or need urgent financial assistance. They may also request personal information such as bank account details or Social Security numbers under the guise of providing important updates. In some cases, the fraudsters may even use the actual names of the seafarers to add credibility to their claims. It is important for family members to remain vigilant and verify any requests for money or personal information before taking action.

To protect themselves from falling victim to these scams, family members should be cautious of any unsolicited communication claiming to be from a shipping company or seafarer. They should also avoid sharing sensitive information or sending money without first confirming the legitimacy of the request. Additionally, it is recommended that family members establish reliable channels of communication with the seafarers while they are away at sea to prevent any misunderstandings or fraudulent activity.

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