Warning Over Increase In ‘Courier Fraud’

Leicestershire Police are warning residents about a rise in ‘courier fraud’ targeting the elderly.

Tricksters have been calling people, pretending to be police or bank officials, and asking them to withdraw cash or hand over bank cards.

In one case, a woman in Anstey lost over £9,000 after a caller falsely claimed her husband had been arrested.

Two women in Oakham were also targeted.

Officers say they would never ask you to withdraw money.

Nicole McIntyre, from the Economic Crime Unit, said: “Those committing courier fraud try to prey on the elderly and vulnerable. They attempt to sound genuine and work quickly to gain the trust of the person they are calling.

“The police would never contact you and ask you to withdraw money. If you get a call like this, please hang up. If you need to contact your bank following a call, please try to use a different line as fraudsters can stay on the line even after you have hung up.

“I’d encourage our communities to speak to one another to ensure no-one falls victim to such a crime. Please speak to anyone you know who is elderly or vulnerable to ensure they are aware too.”

Anyone who thinks they have been a victim of courier fraud is asked to report it to police on 101 or via www.leics.police.u

Further advice about the scam can be found on the Action Fraud website https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/a-z-of-fraud/courier-fraud and the steps people can take to protect themselves.