“There’s an issue with new types of telemarketing fraud. Fraudsters are calling random mobile phone numbers claiming they have won large sums of cash, usually around SR100,000,” said Al-Ghamdi.

“Perpetrators ask the victims to switch their mobile phones off, remove the batteries and tell them the first three serial digits registered on their SIMs, which typically always contain the numbers 8966,” said Al-Ghamdi.

He added that when the victim feels assured that the call is not a prank, the fraudsters ask them to send them money and their personal bank details to receive the prize money.

Al-Ghamdi said the majority of people who have been targeted tend to be Sawa customers.

He further called on members of the public to be vigilant and not to divulge their personal details to third parties, adding that anyone asked to update their personal data are requested to do so at a bank or certified shops run by mobile service providers.

He added that people should avoid purchasing prepaid phone cards from unknown retailers or other dubious means, even if they are cheap.

“They should also not indulge in conversations with people they don’t know and avoid giving people their personal information over the telephone,” he said.

Police also warned against helping unknown people pay their bills through their personal bank accounts.

“Police in Jeddah are on standby to provide all necessary assistance and advice to citizens and residents,” said Al-Ghamdi, urging people to call the security hot line on 642-5550 with questions, concerns or suggestions.

The Ministry of Interior has also issued warnings through the media that anyone found involved in telemarketing fraud or identity theft would be severely dealt with.