Fake Coppers Scam Pensioners Out of Thousands in Littlehampton
Scammers Posing as Police Pull Off Ruthless Fraud
Sussex Police are hunting con artists who duped elderly victims in Littlehampton by pretending to be real coppers. The fraudsters targeted pensioners in their 80s, armed with detailed personal info to make their scam believable.
The crooks rang up, claiming to be Detective Sergeants or Superintendents investigating fake banknotes and dodgy transactions in the victims’ accounts. They pressured victims to withdraw huge sums of cash, supposedly to check for fraudulent serial numbers.
Then, a courier showed up at victims’ homes to collect the cash for these so-called “investigations.” The scammers had everything – names, ages, addresses, even banking details – making the ruse alarmingly convincing.
Police Investigation in Full Swing
Sussex Police have launched a probe and are on the lookout for anyone with information. “This type of fraud is extremely concerning,” warned a police spokesperson. “We urge residents to remain vigilant. Police never ask for cash, bank details, or send couriers to collect money.”
Stay Sharp: How to Avoid Falling for the Trick
- Be wary of unexpected calls claiming to be from police or banks.
- Never give out personal or financial info over the phone.
- If told to withdraw or transfer money, hang up and call your bank directly using the official number.
- Verify the caller’s identity by contacting the organisation they claim to represent.
Spot a Scam? Report It Now
If you or someone you know has been targeted, report it immediately to Sussex Police. You can call 101 and quote reference number 463 of 06/01 or report the crime online.
Don’t let these scammers get away with it – stay alert and protect vulnerable folks from falling prey to fake police fraudsters.
