Warning over courier fraud scams in your area

Warning over courier fraud scams in your area

Good Afternoon Resident,

Today Walsall Police are warning local residents to be vigilant against courier fraud scams, which are targeting elderly and vulnerable people in and around Walsall.

Courier fraud involves criminals posing as police officers or bank officials and convincing victims to hand over their cash, bank cards and PIN numbers, or other valuables to a courier.

The scammers typically contact their victims by phone and claim that there is a problem with their bank account or that they are the victim of fraud or identity theft. They may also claim to be investigating a crime and need the victim's help to gather evidence. The police will never ask you to give bank details or withdraw cash for an investigation.

Once the victim has been convinced that the caller is legitimate, the scammers will ask them to withdraw cash from their bank account and hand it over to a courier or to hand over their bank cards and PIN numbers. They may also ask the victim to purchase expensive items, such as gold or jewellery, and hand them over to a courier.

In some cases, the scammers will even send a courier to the victim's home to collect the cash or valuables. The courier may be in a uniform or driving a vehicle that looks official, but they are actually working for the scammers.

Courier fraud is a particularly insidious type of scam because it often targets elderly and vulnerable people. The scammers prey on their victims' fear and trust, and they can be very persuasive.

How to stay safe from courier fraud:

There are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones from courier fraud:

Never give out your bank account details or PIN numbers to anyone over the phone, even if they claim to be from your bank or the police.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the police or your bank, hang up immediately and wait a few moments to ensure the line has been disconnected. You can call the number of the back of your bank card to verify their identify or call police on 101 if you are unsure. If possible, use a different phone line or mobile to make this call.

Never withdraw cash from your bank account or purchase expensive items at the request of someone who has contacted you over the phone.

If a courier comes to your home to collect cash, cards, PIN numbers or valuables, refuse to hand them over and call the police immediately on 999.

Speak to elderly neighbours and family members about the dangers of courier fraud.

If you have been a victim of courier fraud:

Call the police immediately on 999 and report it to your bank.

Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via their website at www.actionfraud.police.uk

Additional tips for staying safe:

Be extremely wary of unsolicited phone calls, emails and text messages.

Don't rush into making any decisions. If you're unsure about something, take some time to think about it before you act.

Get advice from someone you trust before making any important decisions, such as withdrawing cash from your bank account or transferring money.

If you think you may have been the victim of fraud, report it to the police and to your bank immediately.

Remember our advice: Stay Wise, Don't Compromise.

For more information and advice about staying safe from courier fraud scams, visit our crime prevention page here.

Spot the signs - Watch our YouTube video on how someone may be targeted by courier fraud: Courier Fraud Warning: Stay Wise, Don't Compromise - YouTube

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