Bedfordshire Police is urging local people, particularly those who are elderly and vulnerable, to stay alert following a spike in courier fraud across the county.
In the past week alone, officers have received six separate reports of this type of scam, which typically begins with a cold call from someone pretending to be a police officer or bank official.
Victims are told there’s a problem with their bank account or that they need to help with an ongoing investigation. The aim is to convince them to hand over personal banking details, withdraw cash, or even hand over bank cards and valuables to a ‘courier’ who visits their home.
Read: Conmen jailed after Bedford pensioner targeted in ‘fake police’ scam
Detective sergeant Ann Ward from the force’s Serious Fraud Investigation Unit said: “Unfortunately, this is a very common crime type in which the perpetrators prey on the elderly and vulnerable.
“They end up losing valuable amounts of money and savings, which in turn leads to upset and worry.
“Please remember that the police will never ask you to withdraw money for them or call you to ask for your bank details, and never ever share your debit or credit card with anyone else. They will also never ask for your jewellery to keep it safe.”
The force is reminding residents to always verify a caller’s identity, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never give out banking information over the phone.
If in doubt, hang up and call your bank or the police, ideally from a different phone line to make sure the scammer hasn’t stayed on the call.
“If you do give your details to someone who you later believe is not credible, it’s important that you contact the bank immediately,” added DS Ward.
Police are also encouraging people to share this warning with elderly relatives, neighbours or friends.
To report a scam or find out how to protect yourself from fraud, visit actionfraud.police.uk.
