Warning – Courier Fraud

Officers from the Economic Crime Unit are warning members of the public about courier fraud following a number of concerning reports where people have been targeted in the Teesside area.

People are targeting callers over the phone and claiming to be from the bank or police and are demanding money to be sent to them via a Post Office.

The cold callers are very convincing and will call several times a day and often manage to convince people to co-operate with them.

Sometimes they will persuade victim’s to be receivers of money packages in the post and demand for them to post the parcels onto another address.

Recently, a woman in her 60s was targeted however staff from a local Post Office managed to intervene before any money was sent.

A man in his 80s has also been targeted but unfortunately, he has handed over thousands of pounds worth of cash. Two men have been arrested in connection with this in another Force area.

Cyber and Economic Crime Inspector, Amanda Badger said: “Police and banks would never phone anyone and ask them to send them money. It is so important that we speak to our older relatives and friends about courier fraud as it does tend to be these people who are targeted.

“We have issued warnings in relation to this type of crime before but the older generation don’t always have access to social media or the internet which is why it is vital that they have people to inform them.

“Teesside isn’t the only area that is targeted with this type of crime, it is a national issue. We work closely with partner agencies from Action Fraud, NERSOU and financial institutions in a bid to clamp down on courier fraud and to prevent further victims from being targeted.

“Following the recent reports, my team will be issuing posters to Post Offices across the Teesside area to warn people about the dangers of courier fraud.

“Anyone who receives a phone call from someone claiming to be police or a bank and asking about money should hang up immediately and inform a trusted friend or relative.

“If you have been a victim of courier fraud or know someone who has, please report this to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or Cleveland Police on 101. Some people are often too embarrassed to admit they have been a victim of a scam but it is important we are informed so we can do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.”