Police in the Midlands have issued a warning after a fraudster employed an 'unusual' new method to target a vulnerable victim. Two recent incidents have prompted authorities to alert the public about courier fraud and the evolving tactics used by criminals.
What is Courier Fraud?
Courier fraud occurs when a fraudster contacts a victim and claims to be a police officer or bank official. The perpetrator often sounds plausible and may confirm the victim's name, address, and basic information over the phone. After gaining trust, the fraudster may claim there has been fraudulent activity on the victim's bank account or that they are investigating counterfeit currency. In some cases, they persuade the victim to withdraw a large sum of money from their local branch, then send someone to collect the cash from the victim's home.
Incident Details
According to Leicestershire Police, the victims reported being contacted by someone pretending to be a police officer on Tuesday, May 12. The suspect specifically claimed to work for 'Leicester Police'. In one incident, the victim handed over her bank card and PIN number to the suspect at her home in the Abbey Ward area of Leicester. The fraudster then returned to her home a second time and stole jewellery, claiming he would keep it safe at the police station in case she was burgled—a move police have described as 'unusual'.
Police Comments
Nicole McIntyre, from the force’s economic crime unit, said: 'While the courier fraud scam is one we are very familiar with, and is always of concern, it is unusual that the suspect has returned to the address and also stolen jewellery. Suspects target elderly or vulnerable people and often sound genuine to gain the trust of the victims. Clearly, knowing the victim has already handed over her bank card and PIN, he has returned, exploiting her vulnerability once more.'
Advice for the Public
Police emphasise that genuine police officers or bank officials would never contact people in this way. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately. If someone visits your door claiming to be a police officer and asks for your bank card to trace fraudulent transactions, do not hand over your card and close the door. To verify, wait five minutes before contacting your bank, as fraudsters can stay on the line even after you hang up, or use a different phone line. Your bank cards are yours alone—never let others use them.
McIntyre added: 'We are asking people to remain vigilant. If you have elderly neighbours or relatives who don’t access our website or social media, please advise them of these incidents. Telephone companies can assist with call blocking technology to help restrict these types of calls. We would recommend that people talk this through with their vulnerable or elderly family and friends to help prevent this activity.'
Fraudsters sometimes use local taxi firms to transport potential victims to their banks. Police urge taxi companies to be mindful of this and contact them immediately if they have any suspicions. Further advice about the scam can be found on the Action Fraud website, which outlines steps to protect oneself.
