In response, UK police are warning the public about the increasing threat of courier fraud. In this insidious scam, crooks dupe victims into surrendering their debit or credit cards and cash. This is an especially disturbing trend as it hits older adults the hardest. According to recent police data, of those struck 80% are over 65 years of age. Authorities have taken to issuing warnings as their offence. In addition, they’re issuing tips on protecting yourself and not becoming a victim of these scams.
Scam #1: Courier fraud
This scam typically starts when a fraudster contacts a target. Often they will pose as some sort of official from a trusted organization such as the police department or a major bank. In one notable case, a fraudster impersonated a member of Scotland Yard’s Action Fraud team, claiming that the victim’s card was needed for fingerprint analysis related to an ongoing investigation. Victims are subsequently convinced to give up their bank card to a courier sent by the scammer. Once in possession of the card, the scammer can run up huge bills, often amounting to thousands of pounds.
Profile of Victims
The demographic targeted in courier fraud schemes is an older adult. Officials have recorded the oldest known victim as being 101 years old, highlighting how older adults face an enormous risk. Scam artists consistently count on people’s goodwill and naivete, seniors continue to be prime casualties of these cons. Many of these unfortunate elder victims would not fall prey if they were simply provided information on the tactics criminals employ. They could be discouraged by the misleading, threatening language used in these robocalls.
According to reports, the total sum taken via courier fraud is over £600,000. Oftentimes, scammers use a combination of tactics to make off with their victims’ money. They routinely tell participants to pull large amounts of cash out and store it, or purchase gold bars to deliver. These tactics are intended to drain the financial resources. They play on the emotional trust that victims have for authority figures.
Prevention and Awareness
Given the recent increasing threats, police have stressed the need to be alert. They encourage people who get questionable calls to be cautious and think about the potential risk before answering. If a victim has only one phone line, please take care to allow at least one minute before redialing. Scammers are able to maintain the line for a while, giving consumers a false sense of security. To ensure you’re not in danger, end the call entirely. Next, call your bank and/or local police from another phone.
Victims have the helplines’ contact numbers already printed on their bank cards, or they can call 101 in order to reach the police for support. Elected officials say people should be wary of any unexpected calls. These scams usually ask for personal details or money, specifically for bank account information. Through education and vigilance, consumers can arm themselves with the knowledge to protect themselves from such deceitful scams.
Legal Actions Taken
Formerly, courier fraud was not prioritized, but law enforcement agencies have started holding perpetrators of courier fraud accountable. In March, one of the trio was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison for his role defrauding the 80-year-old lady. This exchange represents the lasting impact scammers can have. It further serves to inspire hope by showing that law enforcement is undeniably on the hunt for these offenders. While investigations into last week’s rioting are still underway, police remain hopeful. They know that by increasing awareness and collaborating with communities they can help minimize the threat of courier fraud.