Officers investigating a case of courier fraud in Portsmouth are appealing for information and urging residents to learn how to recognize this type of scam. The incident took place on Wednesday, September 25, when a woman in her 70s was targeted and deceived into handing over £4,500 in cash.
At around 9:00 a.m., the woman received a call on her landline from a man claiming to be a police officer in London investigating fraudulent transactions with Halifax Building Society. The scammer, along with others, convinced the victim that they needed her bank notes to fingerprint them as part of the “investigation.
Later that morning, at approximately 11:00 a.m., a man visited the woman’s address on Kimbolton Road to collect the money. The victim handed over more than £4,500 in cash, which was placed in an envelope.
Police are looking for anyone who saw a man fitting the following description in the area or has doorbell or dashcam footage that could assist in their investigation. The suspect is described as:
- Black
- Approximately 5’2″ tall
- Of skinny build
- Aged between 20-40
- With short, curly hair
- Wearing very skinny black leather trousers and dark clothing
It is believed that the man left the address on Kimbolton Road, heading in the direction of Hayling Avenue.
Anyone who may have seen this individual or noticed anything suspicious on Kimbolton Road is urged to call police on 101, quoting reference number 44240422914. Information can also be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or their website.
What is Courier Fraud?
Courier fraud is an advanced scam in which a victim receives an unexpected call from someone impersonating a police officer, bank employee, or phone/internet provider. The scammer convinces the victim that their account has been compromised, requesting their help in an ongoing investigation. Victims are often asked to provide personal financial details and withdraw cash, which a “courier” then collects from their home.
Recent reports suggest that fraudsters are becoming bolder, telling victims their cards have expired or that they have been scammed, and subsequently sending couriers to collect bank cards and PIN numbers.
Key Warnings and Advice:
- Police, banks, or other organizations will NEVER ask for money or personal information this way.
- If you receive such a call, hang up immediately—it is a scam.
- Verify the caller’s identity by calling their organization using a trusted phone number, not any number provided by the caller. Wait at least five minutes to ensure the scammer has disconnected.
- A genuine police officer will never mind waiting while you verify their identity. Pushy behavior is a red flag.
- If pressured, take time to think. Discuss with a trusted friend or family member before taking any action.
Family members and carers of elderly individuals are encouraged to discuss these scams with those they care for, as these groups are often targeted. The guidance may be crucial in preventing fraud.
If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a scam, please report it to the police by calling 101, or call 999 if a crime is in progress. More information on recognizing and preventing scams can be found on the Action Fraud website or by calling 0300 123 2040.
