Gloucestershire Constabulary warns against courier fraud targeting vulnerable individuals
People are urged to remain cautious as scammers pose as police officers
Gloucestershire Constabulary has raised concerns about an ongoing scam operation known as courier fraud affecting residents in Cheltenham and surrounding areas.
The scheme involves fraudsters impersonating police officers, often claiming to be from different police forces, such as the Metropolitan Police or West Mercia Police, regardless of their actual location.
The scammers attempt to present themselves with an air of authority, commonly providing a fake police constable or detective constable title, along with fabricated credentials like collar numbers.
In this scam, victims are manipulated into believing they are aiding an investigation by withdrawing or providing high-value items such as cash, gold, electronics, or jewellery.
Subsequently, low-level members of organized crime groups, or unwitting taxi drivers, collect these items under the guise of legitimacy.
Rhiannon Parker, Fraud Protect Officer for Gloucestershire police says genuine police officers would never request such assistance and cautioned that victims often feel compelled to comply due to the fraudster's pressure and manipulation.
The public are being made aware of specific red flags, such as requests for money under urgent circumstances or calls claiming to be from police officers.
If in doubt, individuals should use a different phone to contact the police on the non-emergency 101 number or wait at least 10 minutes to ensure the line has not been compromised.
We’re being told to take time to evaluate communications and avoid succumbing to time pressure and that legitimate organizations would not rush decisions, unlike fraudsters who thrive on urgency.
For those concerned about vulnerable family members its suggested to implement call blockers or utilise regular social connections to prevent isolation, which can make individuals more susceptible to scams.
The Report Fraud service, managed by the City of London Police, is the primary platform for reports.
Victims are encouraged to reach out to their banks using the 159 hotline for fraud concerns and use 999 in case of immediate threats or ongoing fraud activities.
For ongoing support, organizations like Victim Support and Debtline offer valuable assistance.