Courier Fraud Again

Click on this image to enlarge it.

This is a particular type of fraud targeting elderly people which is on the increase across London. The average age of the victim is 70 years old. The average loss is £4,000. The method varies but usually a victim is telephoned by a person who claims to be someone of authority such as from the police, bank or the Serious Fraud Office. The caller tells the victim there is a problem with their bank account or credit card and that their bank card must be collected.
If the victim is unconvinced that the call is genuine they are told to hang up and call a genuine number – such as 999 or the telephone number on the rear of their bank card. The suspect keeps the telephone line open and so the call goes straight back to the fraudster who then asks for their account number and their pin.
Believing they are talking to someone genuine the victim is then happy to reveal their bank details, namely the PIN.

An often unwitting courier or taxi driver is sent to collect the victim’s card. The card is delivered to a second person who then passes it on to the fraudster. The fraudster then empties the bank account.

Never give anyone your PIN or bank card – the police and banks will never ask for them. If you have elderly relative, neighbours or friends please warn them about this scam.

If you have been a victim call the police on 101 or in an emergency by dialling 999.