Portsmouth Woman Swindled Out of £4,500 in Shocking Courier Scam
Police are hunting a scammer who fooled a 70-something woman into handing over £4,500 cash in Portsmouth. The fraud took place on Wednesday, September 25, when the victim was duped by a man pretending to be a London police officer.
The Scam Unfolded
At around 9am, the woman got a call on her landline from a man claiming to be investigating fraudulent Halifax Building Society transactions. The scammer and accomplices convinced her they needed to “fingerprint” her banknotes as part of the probe.
By 11am, a man showed up at her Kimbolton Road home to collect the cash, which she handed over—more than £4,500 stuffed in an envelope.
Suspect Description: Police Want You to Look Out!
- Black male
- About 5’2″ tall
- Skinny build
- Aged between 20-40
- Short, curly hair
- Wearing very skinny black leather trousers and dark clothes
He was last seen leaving towards Hayling Avenue. Police urge anyone with doorbell or dashcam footage, or who spotted anything suspicious near Kimbolton Road, to call 101 with reference 44240422914. Anonymous tips can go to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
What is Courier Fraud? How to Stay Safe
Courier fraud is a sneaky scam where fraudsters pose as cops, bank staff, or service providers. They claim your account is compromised and ask for personal details or cash. Then, a “courier” turns up to pick it up.
Fraudsters are now even bolder, saying cards are expired or you’ve been scammed, then sending couriers to grab your bank cards and PINs.
Police Warning and Top Tips:
- No genuine police officer or bank will ever ask for your cash or personal info by phone.
- If you get a suspicious call, hang up immediately.
- Verify any caller by ringing the organisation back using an official number—not one they give you.
- Real officers won’t mind waiting while you check. Pushy callers are a major red flag.
- If pressured, pause and talk to a trusted friend or family member.
Families and carers, especially of the elderly, are urged to discuss these scams to help protect vulnerable loved ones.
If you or someone you know has been scammed, report it to police on 101, or 999 if it’s happening now. Visit Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040 for advice.
