Elderly being targeted as courier scams rise in Hampshire
A couple lost £70,000 after being scammed
People in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being urged to be vigilant as reports of courier fraud rise, with one couple said to have lost £70,000.
Victims typically receive an unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer, internet or phone provider employee or staff at their local bank.
After being told their account has been subject to fraudulent activity and request the victims help with the investigation, they are then instructed to hand over expensive items or money to a fraudulent courier.
Since the beginning of August, 17 reports of courier fraud have been received by Hampshire Police.
Elderly being targeted by 'heartless' individuals
Officers are urging us not to engage with these types of calls which are targeting elderly people.
Anyone with an elderly relative, loved one or friend is urged to make them aware of this scam.
One victim, a woman in her 80s, was told of an investigation into forged bank notes. The scammer insisted she visited various banks and stores to withdraw cash, which was later collected by a courier. She was kept on the line throughout the process.
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.
“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.”
We are reminded that police officers, banks and other organisations will never call people and ask us to withdraw money or disclose personal or financial information.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, we can report it by calling 101.