West Mercia Police warn of courier fraud targeting elderly residents
Recent scam incidents prompt alert to protect vulnerable family members
West Mercia Police is urging the public to remain vigilant following multiple reports of courier fraud, particularly targeting elderly and vulnerable individuals.
Recent incidents include a case in Hereford on 28th August, where an elderly victim was coerced into withdrawing money and handing it over to a courier, alongside being pressed to buy high-value items and transfer substantial sums to another account.
Another similar case was reported in North Herefordshire, involving a fraudster impersonating a police officer to trick an elderly victim into transferring money.
Understanding courier fraud
Courier fraud typically involves fraudsters calling victims, pretending to be law enforcement authorities or banks, and convincing them to divulge PIN or bank card details, handing over cash, or purchasing items for a 'courier'.
Elderly people are the most common targets for these scams, with the fraudsters exploiting their trust in authority.
Advice and prevention
Detective Inspector Mel Reynolds stressed the importance of vigilance and awareness regarding such scams, urging individuals to inform and protect vulnerable family members.
Reynolds reiterated: “No police officer from any force will ever ask you to make a purchase, withdraw or transfer money, or ask for your bank details.”
In instances where fraudsters claim to be officers from Hereford or the MET police, Reynolds advises hanging up immediately and verifying the call independently with police or a bank using a different phone line.
West Mercia Police's Operation Prospero is actively targeting offenders posing as police officers.
For comprehensive information on door-to-door and courier fraud, visit the West Mercia Police website.
Any person contacted by a bogus officer should report the incident through 101 or online, using the West Mercia Police 'Report a crime' page.