‘Courier fraud’ style scam warning

On June 10, detectives received three reports of a ‘courier fraud-style’ scam in Northumberland, where a man claimed to be an officer from the Metropolitan Police.

In the first two cases, the man introduced himself as DC Hancock and in third case, DC Harper.

As part of the con, the tricksters try and dupe their vulnerable victims into believing they have already been defrauded and coerce them into sending money, bank cards and other valuable ‘evidence’ to ‘investigators’ via a courier.

In the first case, the victim withdrew £2,000 from his account before his bank, Santander, intervened to help, stopping him from sending any money and alerting police.

The second two victims, though calling the scammers ‘very convincing’, recognised the calls as cons and immediately contacted police.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Woods, of Northumbria Police, said: “This type of fraud is particularly awful as it sees fraudsters deliberately targeting some of the most vulnerable and preying on their fears.

“Make sure that if you are approached in this way, you not only hang up the phone, but make sure the line is clear before calling anyone else.”

Anyone who thinks they might have been a victim of courier fraud, or any other kind of fraud, should contact Action Fraud immediately by calling 0300 123 2040, Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, or online at www.actionfraud.police.uk

People can also call police on 101.