There has been a recent increase in Courier Fraud in Lincolnshire where the elderly are being targeted. The offender initially contacts the victim by telephone, convinces them that they are from the bank and obtains their pin number.
They inform the victim that their card is due to expire and someone will go to their address to collect and replace it. A courier then attends the victims address, takes the card and leaves behind an envelope.
This contains Boots or ITunes cards.
There have been similar reported incidents in Dorset and other counties. In the majority of cases there is one initial cash withdrawal using the bank card in the area that the victim lives and then the card is later used for multiple transactions in London, usually within 24 hours.
Please discuss this with elderly relatives and neighbours to make them aware. We fear some people won’t want to report it as they are embarrassed. However, if you or anyone you know has received such a call, please ask them to report it on 101.
Our advice on what to do if you think a telephone call is linked to fraud is as follows:
- End the call immediately. Do not engage with the person on the other end of the phone. If you need to contact a legitimate Company to check out the credentials of a phone call you have received, it is recommended you wait 10 minutes after hanging up before you make another call, this will prevent any open line issues.
- If you require urgent police assistance dial 999.
- If you require non-urgent police support or assistance please call 101.
- Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Alternatively you can report online at www.actionfraud.police.uk
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