Leicestershire Police warns of courier fraud targeting elderly residents

Seven courier fraud incidents reported in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland since early September. Callers pose as police or bank staff to steal cash and cards.

Seven courier fraud cases in Leicestershire prompt police warning

Ca.news.yahoo.com reports that Leicestershire Police has urged residents to "remain vigilant" following seven reports of courier fraud in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland between 4 September and this week.

In this type of fraud, cold callers impersonate police officers or bank employees to gain the trust of their targets. Officers from the force's Economic Crime Unit are now investigating all seven cases.

Nicole McIntyre, from the Economic Crime Unit, said fraudsters typically target elderly or vulnerable people and often sound convincing enough to seem genuine. "I would like to remind our communities that police or banks will not contact people in this way," McIntyre said. "If you get a call like this hang up."

Once trust is established, the caller typically claims the victim's bank account has been compromised or that counterfeit currency is under investigation. The victim is then persuaded to visit their local branch and withdraw a large sum of money, which a courier subsequently collects at their home.

In other cases, the caller asks the victim to hand over their bank card to a so-called courier and to disclose their PIN. That card is then used to make further withdrawals from the victim's account.

McIntyre warned that anyone who arrives at a door claiming to be a police officer and requesting a bank card should be turned away immediately. "Do not hand over your card and close the door," she said.

She also cautioned against calling a bank back immediately after such a call, noting that fraudsters can remain on the line even after a victim believes they have disconnected. Waiting five minutes or using a different phone line entirely is advised.

"Your bank cards are yours and never let them be used by others," McIntyre added.

Source: Google News CA — Crime (EN)