Courier Fraud attempts reported in Herefordshire

West Mercia Police have issued a warning that criminals are pretending to be police officers by attempting to defraud people in Herefordshire, in scam known as ‘Courier Fraud’.

Detective Inspector Emma Wright said: “This type of fraud targets older, vulnerable people and we would urge everyone to tell someone, by passing on the information about the bogus callers to relatives, friends and neighbours who may not have heard about the local telephone scam in operation

“Following several reported successful and unsuccessful attempts to defraud people using this scam in the last few days, I would also ask the public to get in touch with elderly and vulnerable friends and family to warn them of the risk and to know what to do.

“Always remember that no police officer from any force or department will ever ask you to hand over money or transfer funds, regardless of their name or unit. I would like to reassure the community that we are investigating these crimes and want to hear from anyone who has been contacted in this way.

“This scam can be very elaborate, very convincing and cruel. If you think someone is trying to scam you, tell someone straight away. Don’t be pressured. Give yourself time to stop and think.

“If the crime is still in progress, because for example, you have recently provided bank details or handed over cards or cash or are going to visit your bank or the caller has arranged for someone to visit your address to collect items, you should call the police to report this on 101. In an emergency dial 999.

“Please remember the police will never contact you asking for your bank card or cash. If someone does, it’s a scam – provide no details and hand nothing over, hang up, wait ten minutes then call 101.”