Kent police issues fraud warning as elderly woman tricked into posting £10,000 in cash
The woman was in the process of sending another £10,000.
Last updated 6th Sep 2024
Kent police are urging residents to be weary of scammers, after a Dover woman was tricked into posting £10,000 in cash to a fraudster.
The elderly lady believed she was paying for work on her property, and was in the process of sending another £10,000 to the same person.
However, officers were alerted to the suspicious package by a courier company on Tuesday, and were able to reunite the woman with her money.
Officers visited the elderly woman who had sent the money, to speak to her and offer support.
She told them the money was payment to someone who had promised to carry out work on a property.
The circumstances of the work promised appeared suspicious and officers explained to the woman that she was likely the victim of fraud.
She was taken to her bank and paid the £20,000 back in, while her family was also contacted and told what had happened.
Enquiries are now underway to establish whom the money was being sent to and whether any further action can be taken.
Kent police have provided some pointers to avoid becoming a victim of fraud:
• Don't agree to offers or deals immediately. Insist on time to get independent or legal advice, or speak to a friend or family member, before making a decision.
• Don't hand over money or sign anything until you’ve checked someone’s credentials and their company’s.
• Never send money to anyone you don’t know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you’re not comfortable with.
• Don't just rely on glowing testimonials. Find solid, independent evidence of a company’s success.
• Always get independent or legal advice if an offer involves money, time or commitment.
• If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help.
• Don't be embarrassed about reporting a scam. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others.