Sussex Hit Hard by Ruthless Courier Fraud Targeting Elderly
Fraudsters are preying on Sussex’s most vulnerable, duping mainly elderly residents with slick courier scams. These con artists pose as police or bank officials, spinning tales of fake fraud on your accounts – all to get their hands on your cash, cards, and valuables.
How the Scam Works: Shady Calls and Courier Collections
Scammers call victims pretending to be from trusted organisations. They claim there’s suspicious activity and urge victims to withdraw large sums of money or send bank cards to “help with investigations.” Often, victims are told to invent stories, like money being for grandchildren, to avoid suspicion from bank staff.
Take one East Sussex pensioner, aged 80, who was told her bank account was at risk and to withdraw £8,000 for a “note check.” Luckily, bank staff spotted the scam and stopped her before she lost a penny.
Tragically, not everyone is so lucky. An 89-year-old West Sussex man was conned into sending his bank card to a London address after a fraudster claimed his card was cloned. They swiftly raked up £727 in transactions before he realised the truth and cancelled his card.
Shocking Stats: Over £3.6 Million Lost This Year Alone
- Op Signature received 543 reports of courier fraud in Sussex this year.
- Almost two-thirds involved women aged 75 or older.
- 185 victims lost more than £3.6 million collectively.
Top Tips to Outsmart Scammers
- Never share personal info or your PIN over the phone.
- Always verify calls by ringing your bank using official numbers.
- Wait before calling back—use a different phone or call a friend first.
- Don’t send bank cards or cash to anyone you don’t know.
- Refuse to withdraw or transfer money on a stranger’s orders.
Remember: Banks and Police Will NEVER
- Ask for your PIN or bank card details.
- Send a courier to collect your cards, cash, or valuables.
- Request you to withdraw cash or buy valuables for investigations.
Bernadette Lawrie, Sussex Police Financial Abuse Safeguarding Officer, warns: “If you feel unsure or uncomfortable, stop and ring your bank directly. Talk to a trusted family member or friend before taking any action.”
Suspect Fraud? Act Fast!
If you or a loved one might be a target of courier fraud, report it immediately to Action Fraud online or call 0300 123 2040. For vulnerable or elderly victims, dial 101 for police help.
In an emergency, always call 999.
For detailed advice and support, visit the Op Signature website — your go-to spot to beat fraudsters at their own game.
