Police warn about iPad screen share fraud

An 83-year-old Lincoln woman has been tricked out of £6,000 after fraudsters accessed her iPad through screen sharing software.

She was originally called by the fraudsters who said they needed to protect her bank account.

Police are now investigating but need people to be vigilant against this type of fraud, which hasn’t been seen within the county before.

Superintendent Mark Kirwan says:

“Criminals who target people over the phone or through computers constantly change their methods to con their victims, but they do continue to try and convince their victims they work for organisations which have their interests at heart such as banks or the police.

“Never give your banking details over the phone if someone calls you. Never transfer money to anyone that you have not arranged for your own purposes. No legitimate person will ask you for these details or try to convince you to transfer cash that you were not expecting.

“This crime was a little different in that criminals appear to have used computer software however, the point remains the same – if someone calls you that you have not arranged yourself – never do what they ask. Put the phone down and contact a family member, a trustworthy neighbour or the police if you think it was suspicious. I ask that family members discuss this type of crime with members of the family – we need the message to get through from all angles, police, family, neighbours and our partner agencies – if in doubt, put the phone down.”

If you are targeted by a similar fraud, please report it by calling 101 or to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit: www.actionfraud.police.uk

For further crime advice visit www.lincs.police.uk/reporting-advice/fraud-and-scams/