As part of a wider national awareness drive around the crime type known as courier fraud, ROCUs from across England and Wales are reaffirming their commitment to tackling fraud and safeguarding those it targets.

Courier fraud often targets vulnerable and elderly people via calls to their landline or mobile telephones from withheld numbers from someone purporting to be a police officer or figure of authority.

The criminal then proceeds to inform the victim of fraudulent activity on their bank account and sometimes claims that their bank staff are involved to deter them from contacting the bank another way.

The criminal then often directs the victim to attend their local bank to withdraw a large amount of cash and to return home where it will be collected by a police courier for examination – who is actually a criminal associate.

Alternatively, the criminal asks the victim to handover their bank card and personal information to that same courier.

ROCUs across England and Wales have dedicated specialist teams who work year-round tackling fraud and supporting victims and while we’re showing our support for the awareness campaign – our work doesn’t end there.

From community events, bespoke digital campaigns and operational pursue teams working on the ground – ROCUs are using every tool at their disposal to continue the fight against fraud.

Remember no reputable organisation will mind if you take your time, challenge them, or ask for proof and hang up.

If in doubt, speak to someone you trust, drop into your local bank or call the number given on your official bank statement. If you’re sent a link by text or email don’t click it, report it.

For help and advice visit the Action Fraud website. If you need to report a crime or suspicious activity please speak to your local police force via their website or calling 101. Remember, in an emergency, always call 999.