Preston conman almost scams elderly man out of £80,000
The offender approached the victim at his home, claiming urgent roof repairs were needed
Lancashire Police are urging people to be on alert after an elderly and vulnerable pensioner was targeted by a conman who tried to scam him out of almost eighty thousand pounds.
The offender approached the victim at his home, claiming urgent roof repairs were needed.
He took two thousand five hundred pounds before demanding another seventy-five thousand, which thankfully was not handed over.
Chief Inspector Dave Byrne called it a “despicable crime” and said officers are working hard to catch the offender. He added, “I urge people to be vigilant and take simple steps to avoid falling victim to bogus callers and rogue traders.”
Police advice includes:
STOP: Think before answering the door and make sure other doors are locked. If you feel unsure, do not answer and keep the door locked.
CHAIN: Use a door chain or bar as a barrier and speak through a window if possible.
CHECK: Always ask for identification and confirm it by calling the organisation if you are unsure. Genuine callers will be happy to wait.
Officers say anyone can be targeted, but older adults are particularly at risk. If you are not expecting a visitor and feel uncomfortable, do not open the door.
Neighbourhood Watch schemes can help reduce bogus callers and burglary—consider joining or signing up for local alerts.
Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim of fraud should contact Action Fraud, the national agency for reporting scams. For general advice, Citizens Advice is also available to help.