Police issue warning on courier fraud

Officers from the NWROCU's Economic Crime Team are asking residents in the North West to remain vigilant following an increase in the number of incidents of courier crime across the region.

Courier fraud involves fraudsters calling potential victims and pretending to be police officers or bank officials, tricking them into revealing their PIN number, bank card, and personal details.

This scam has been reported in various regions including Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and Merseyside. 

In one incident, a 90-year-old victim was telephoned by someone claiming to be from Scotland Yard. The caller used intimidation tactics, including issuing a fake police caution and threatening arrest if the victim disclosed the "investigation" to anyone. The victim was then coerced into handing over his bank card to an individual who came to his home, resulting in the loss of several thousand pounds

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Maddocks from the NWROCU's Economic Crime Unit said: 

"These criminals are extremely clever and convincing, manipulating their victims into handing over their hard-earned cash. 

"We strongly encourage anyone who supports or cares for an elderly or vulnerable person to talk about the common tactics scammers use and the red flags to be aware of.

"Having this conversation, especially if your loved one isn't familiar with technology, can be crucial in protecting them from becoming a victim of this deceitful crime. 

"Police Officers or your bank would never ask you to withdraw money from a cash machine, verify your personal details or PIN by phone, or offer to pick up your card by courier. Hang up if you get a call like this."

Key tips to stay safe:

• Be Suspicious: If you receive a call claiming your bank card has been cloned or money has been stolen from your account, remain vigilant.
•  Verify the Caller: Always ask for the caller's full name, rank, collar number (unique to each real police officer), and a crime reference or incident log number.
•  Confirm the Information: Hang up the call and, using a different phone, dial 101. Ask for the police, explain the situation to the call handler, and request verification of the information provided.
• If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from your bank or another authority, you can use the 159 hotline to verify the call. This service connects you directly and securely to your bank, helping you confirm whether the call is legitimate. This service is part of an effort to combat scams and protect consumers from fraud. It's a good practice to always be cautious and verify any unexpected requests for personal or financial information 

If the Information Doesn't Check Out:

• Alert Someone You Trust: Inform a trusted relative, neighbour, or friend about what has happened. Call 101 and report to police

• Protect Your Information: Do not share any personal or banking details with anyone who calls you back.

If you have given your bank details over the phone or handed your card to a courier, call your bank straight away to cancel the card. 

If you think you have been a victim of fraud you should report it to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or calling 0300 123 2040.