People in Herts warned about scam involving fake banking apps
Around eight offences have been reported over the last three weeks in the area
People in Hertfordshire are being warned about a scam involving fake banking apps.
According to Hertfordshire Constabulary, scammers have targeted people who were selling valuable phones, cameras and other items via online selling platforms.
The vendors were contacted about their items and when the scammer arrived, paid for items using a convincing banking app.
It appeared to show the funds being transferred to the victim’s bank account.
Around eight offences have been reported over the last three weeks in the Stevenage, Broxbourne, Hemel Hempstead and Hatfield areas.
Detective Sergeant Mark Fava, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit, said:
"This scam is catching a lot of people out as the app is very convincing.
"The scammer asks the victim to enter their bank details into the app and then it appears to show the amount being debited from the buyer’s account.
"I would urge anyone selling an item to be sceptical about accepting payment via a banking app.
"Payment by cash, credit card or using Paypal for Business is a more secure way of making a sale.
"Please help us to raise awareness by talking about this with your friends and family, especially if they are vulnerable or elderly."
Anyone who believes they are a victim of the scam is asked to report it to Action Fraud, either online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
There is also advice on avoiding scams on the Hertfordshire Constabulary website.