Police are urging residents across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to remain vigilant following 17 reports of courier fraud since the start of August – with 1 couple losing £70,000.
This type of fraud typically sees a victim receive an unexpected call from someone who purports to be a Police officer, a staff member from their local bank, or an employee from an internet or phone provider. Recent reports of this in Hampshire have involved people claiming to be Police officers from London.
They then tell the victim that their account has been subject to fraudulent activity and then request that the victim helps with the ongoing investigation, with this involving:
• Being asked for details about their financial accounts and bank cards.
• Being sent to their bank to withdraw money, or being asked to buy high value goods.
• Granting the caller access to their computer or phone, by downloading an application.
Victims are then told to hand over money or an expensive item to a fraudulent courier, who will typically come to their home to collect it. They are also encouraged not to discuss this with any friends, family or bank staff.
Since the beginning of August, officers have received 17 reports of courier fraud. Some of the offences have resulted in victims losing more than £10,000, while the largest loss has been £70,000.
Officers are urging people to not engage with these type of calls. Victims are typically elderly and officers are asking anyone with an elderly relative, loved 1, friend or associate to make them aware of this scam.
Among other incidents, it was reported that a man in his 80s in the Blackwater area had been scammed out of £8,000, after a suspect visited his home address on Wednesday 23rd August.
Detective Constable Michael Dumbleton, from the Economic Crime Unit, said:
“These fraudsters are heartless individuals who prey on some of the most vulnerable people living in our area. Victims of courier fraud can be any age, but are typically aged between 70 and 89 and I would urge everyone who has an elderly relative to make them aware of this type of fraud as soon as possible.
“These incidents can often have a huge impact on victims as they come to terms with the fact they have fallen for a scam, and the financial losses that come with it.
“We do not want anyone to fall victim to these scammers and we are taking steps to inform residents of courier fraud; so that they are aware of this type of contact and can avoid becoming a victim. If anyone receives a call of this nature, they should not engage with the caller and hang up.
“We are wholly committed to investigating offences of this nature and will take steps to identify and bring those individuals responsible to justice.”
If you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, report it by calling 101. If a crime is in progress, dial 999.
You can make yourself aware of this type of scam and how to protect yourself by visiting the Action Fraud website or by calling them on 0300 123 2040.
Why has the world got so many despicable, vile, low life scum who want to lie, cheat and steal their way into obtaining money by deception. Go and get a job and earn your money. Have some dignity and self worth fu*kers!
Talking of couriers as anyone one recently seen a postman or postwoman?,
I forgot what they look like.
It amazes me how people fall for such obvious scams. Police are wasting far too much time sorting out idiot victims of scams. They should not bother dealing with these scam victims any more and free up more time to do proper policing.
Agreed, given the amount of publicity on social media and the news/TV/Rip off Britain etc. I don’t get how many ppl get scammed.