State pensioners over the age of 70 are being targeted by a 'traumatic' courier fraud scam that has seen losses soar by 116 per cent, according to TSB, which has branches in Birmingham. The bank has warned that the value of losses has more than doubled as cases of courier fraud skyrocket nationwide.
How the Scam Works
The scam involves criminals impersonating banks and the police, using persuasive social engineering tactics to obtain victims' bank cards, PINs, or cash. Victims are either asked to send their cards and PINs through the post, or fraudsters send couriers to collect cash from their homes. In some cases, the fraudsters even collect the items in person. Once in possession of the cards, they typically go on spending sprees.
Targeting the Elderly
This scam is particularly targeting older customers, with almost 9 in 10 victims aged over 70 (born before 1956). One customer lost £5,750 through card use and cash machine withdrawals, which TSB refunded.
Expert Warnings
George Hulland, Fraud Prevention at TSB, said: 'Courier fraud is highly traumatic for victims, who can face scams that last for months, alongside intrusive visits to their home - and even meeting fraudsters face-to-face. Neither a bank, nor the Police will ever request that you post or handover your card, or cash – so if you’re ever asked, it’s definitely a scam.'
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Thomas, Head of the London Proactive Economic Crime Team, added: 'Courier fraud is one of the most serious and harmful fraud types we deal with, disproportionately affecting older and vulnerable victims and often resulting in significant financial and emotional harm. That is why tackling this type of offending is a top priority for us.'
He continued: 'As the national lead force for fraud, we are working closely with forces across the country to coordinate activity and target offenders operating across regional and local boundaries. Through the newly established London Proactive Economic Crime Team (PECT), we have already taken decisive action, making arrests in London and working with regional partners to disrupt those responsible. Alongside this operational activity, we are strengthening our collaboration with the financial sector and other key partners to improve intelligence sharing and identify criminal activity earlier.'
Advice for the Public
Thomas urged: 'Courier fraud relies on criminals abusing trust and pressuring victims into handing over cards, cash or high value items in person. We urge the public to remain vigilant and remember that neither the police nor a bank will ever ask you to hand over your card, PIN, cash or valuables. If something does not feel right, stop, take time, and contact your bank or the police independently before taking any action.'
