by Nicola Jordan

Customers across Medway ordering online presents could get more than they bargained for this Christmas.

Fake delivery messages over the festive period may end up costing residents more than £300 pounds.

The bogus dispatch company is posting calling cards through letter boxes claiming it had tried to deliver a parcel but there was nobody to sign for it.

The name of the firm is PDS or Parcel Delivery Service. It gives a premium rate telephone number for the resident to phone to re-arrange another delivery time.

But as soon as the call connects to the number, it is diverted to an automated recording and the caller will be charged £315. It is thought the company is based in South America.

Medway Council’s trading standards team have issued a warning in the run-up to Christmas when many residents will have ordered packages due to arrive on their doorsteps.

Cllr Mike O’Brien, who is in charge of community safety and customer contact, said: "We advise anyone receiving one of these cards that they should report it on 101 to the police.

"Of course they should not call the number because the premium rate will mean their phone bill could be as high as £300 or more.

"At this time of year when people are ordering gifts online to be delivered to their homes, they could easily fall into this trap if they aren’t aware of the risks."

Have you received one of these cards? Leave your comments below or contact the newsroom on 01634 227803.