We are asking the public to remain vigilant after an elderly male lost a sum of cash to courier fraudsters in Gainsborough.  

A man in his 80s was contacted yesterday (7 December) by criminals purporting to be officers from Metropolitan Police. The criminals have advised the victim to withdraw a sum of cash to assist with an investigation. They also advised the victim to package the money so it could be collected from his home address.

We are asking the public to share this information with their friends, family, and neighbours to prevent more people from falling victim to courier fraud.

What is courier fraud

Courier fraud happens when criminals cold call victims purporting to be a police officer or bank official, convincing them to hand over their cash, bank cards or any other high-value items to a courier that’s been sent to their home.

Fraudsters will often suggest some money has been removed from the victim’s account and that the staff from their local bank are being investigated. They may also suggest that an individual known to the victim has been arrested but the “police officers” need money for evidence.

Another tactic being used by criminals is to instruct the unsuspecting victim to purchase high-value items such as jewellery or gold. If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately.

Stay safe from courier fraud

Your bank or the police will never ask you for your PIN, bank card, or any other financial details. They will also never ask you to withdraw money or to buy items on their behalf to be picked up by a courier.

There are call blocking services available that can help screen out unwanted calls. If you receive an unexpected call, hang up and use another phone to call back and confirm the identity on a number you can verify yourself, not one given by the caller. Ask yourself, “how do I know they are who they say they are?”.

Report it

If you think you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately. You can also report this to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online.

For further crime advice, visit our Fraud page on the website or visit Action Fraud.