£19.6 Million Lost in Courier Fraud – Police Issue Urgent Warning
Police are sounding the alarm after victims lost over £19.6 million to ruthless courier fraudsters in just three months. The scammers, often targeting elderly pensioners, pose as police officers or bank reps, falsely claiming victims’ bank accounts have been hacked.
Scammers Trick Victims Into Handing Over Cash and Jewellery
These con artists manipulate victims into handing over cash, jewellery, and bank cards — using fake “courier” services to collect the loot. Some losses are staggering: one Essex victim parted with £5.3 million, while another in Cambridgeshire was conned out of £1.9 million.
Detective Sergeant Victoria O’Keefe from City of London Police warns, “Victims are losing life savings. Jewellers and gold dealers must watch for signs of courier fraud.”
She added, “If anyone hears of friends or family being contacted out of the blue by ‘police’ or ‘banks’ asking to make purchases on their behalf, call the police immediately.”
Courier Fraud Hits Across the UK – Elderly Most at Risk
Fraud cases have popped up across Wiltshire, Thames Valley, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire. High-value gold bullion sales are a common lure. Victims are often aged between 75 and 91, making them prime targets.
In Marlborough, a 91-year-old woman tried to withdraw £50,000 after a fake London Police call. Luckily, her bank blocked it, and her son convinced her to report the scam.
Call Blockers and Fraud Protection Officers Offer Hope
Wiltshire Police’s Complex Fraud Team manager Cheryl Hurren stresses the threat of courier fraud and points to Fraud Protect Officer Rachel Davies, who offers tailored advice to residents. Community groups and individuals are urged to seek her help.
One strong defence is a call blocker device, filtering scam calls and allowing only trusted numbers through. City of London Police teamed up with Truecall in 2021 to install blockers in residents’ homes. Learn more at truecall.co.uk.
How to Report Suspected Fraud
- Jewellers or gold dealers suspecting fraud should call 999 immediately.
- Report scams online to Action Fraud or phone 0300 123 2040 in England and Wales.
- scotland/" title="Police Scotland" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="4541">Police Scotland can be contacted on 101.
