Northamptonshire Police warn community about courier fraud targeting elderly
Fraudsters posing as police officers or bank officials in recent incidents
Police in Northamptonshire are urging people to warn their elderly relatives and vulnerable members of the community about courier fraud after two incidents were reported last week.
Courier fraud involves criminals calling potential victims and pretending to be officials from banks, law enforcement, or other authorities to gain personal and financial details, including PIN numbers and bank cards.
The recent cases occurred in areas including Corby, Rushden, Oundle, and Wellingborough, where fraudsters claimed to be police officers from the Met or Scotland Yard. Victims were told their bank accounts had been compromised and asked to take part in an “undercover operation.”
This included withdrawing money, converting it into Euros at a money exchange, and handing over the currency, a bank card, and PIN numbers to couriers.
Detective Sergeant Jason Gregory from Northamptonshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit described these types of fraud as “particularly devastating and traumatic.”
“These criminals use manipulative tactics to panic victims into taking actions they wouldn’t normally take,” Gregory said.
“We urge those in caring or supportive roles for elderly loved ones to start conversations about the tactics used and warning signs to look out for.
“Just having that conversation could make the difference between someone becoming a victim or avoiding this trust-eroding crime.”
Police have emphasised that legitimate organisations would never ask individuals to withdraw money, transfer funds to another account, or participate in undercover operations. They remind residents that scammers can make any telephone number appear authentic on caller ID and that victims should take time to verify details carefully.
Signs of courier fraud include unsolicited telephone calls, posing as officials, requests to purchase high-value items like watches or gold bullion, withdrawing or handing over cash, and keeping the victim from sharing details with family or friends.
Fraudsters may also keep the phone line open after asking victims to call their bank, purporting to give false confirmation, and arranging for couriers to collect items from victims.
If you suspect you’ve been targeted or become a victim of courier fraud, report it to the UK’s national fraud centre online at www.reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. Reporting all fraud-related incidents helps authorities build a clearer picture of criminal activity and prevent others from being targeted.