Northamptonshire sees surge in courier fraud with £200,000 lost in 2025
Police urge vigilance as fraudsters target elderly victims
In 2025, victims of courier fraud in Northamptonshire lost over £200,000, as disturbing new figures reveal criminals using advanced tactics to deceive victims.
According to the City of London Police, the National Lead Force for Fraud, more than £21 million was stolen through courier fraud last year, with 1,891 reports made to the national service Report Fraud.
Growing Threat
Reports of courier fraud increased nearly 10 percent year-on-year, causing concern among police who note the scam's growing sophistication and persistence.
In Northamptonshire, 229 reports resulted in losses exceeding £229,704, prompting reminders from the county’s Economic Crime Unit for vigilance regarding fraud.
Detective Superintendent Ollie Little described courier fraud as a "cruel and calculated crime," warning that offenders increasingly exploit messaging platforms like WhatsApp to arrange collections.
Targeting the Elderly
The fraud disproportionately targets older people, especially those aged 70 and above.
In 2025, those aged 76 to 96 accounted for 62 percent of all complaints.
Fraudsters exploit trust in institutions such as banks and use pressure tactics to manipulate compliance.
Detective Constable Jo Barlow from Northamptonshire's Economic Crime Unit advises people to remain cautious and verify phone calls independently, emphasising that legitimate organisations will allow time to consider actions.
New Fraud Trends
A significant trend identified in 2025 involves victims being persuaded to procure jewellery and gold.
Offenders maintain contact with victims, seeking maximum financial gain through repeat interactions.
DC Barlow offers practical steps to guard against courier fraud, suggesting individuals never assume calls are genuine, especially if basic personal details are known.
If in doubt, contact the organisation directly using verified contact details.
Combatting Courier Fraud
Warning signs include unexpected calls from purported police officers or bank employees, claiming accounts are at risk or investigations require assistance.
Victims are instructed to withdraw money, disclose sensitive information, or purchase costly items.
A courier arrives to collect valuables, which are ultimately lost to criminals.
To protect against courier fraud, remember:
- Banks or police will never ask for account transfers to a safe acc
- ount.
- Banks or police will not send couriers to collect valuables.
- Verify authenticity by using official contact details.
- Caller ID is unreliable and cannot be trusted.
Report suspicious calls by texting ‘Call’ and the number to 7726.
If fraud is suspected, contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the website: reportfraud.police.uk.