Dorset Police news site

Police are urging residents in Dorset to take extra precautions, following a flurry of telephone scams.

Dorset Police received several reports of suspected courier fraud between 23 April and 30 April 2024.

Courier fraud typically sees a victim receive an unexpected call from someone claiming to be a police officer or bank. The caller may be able to confirm some basic details about the victim such as their full name and address.

Callers tell the victim that their account has been subject to fraudulent activity and will apply pressure to convince the victim to hand over their bank details or withdraw cash, which may be passed on to a ‘courier’ who will collect the cash from their home.

Recent reports received by Dorset Police show that victims have received telephone calls from people claiming to be their bank or police officers, encouraging the victims to withdraw or transfer large sums of money for ‘safe-keeping’ following ‘detected fraudulent activity’ on their account.

Damian Cranny, Fraud Protect Officer at Dorset Police, said: “People committing courier fraud typically target the elderly or vulnerable people who may live alone or suffer from age-related illnesses.

“Courier fraud can seem convincing, and callers often reference personal details to make them seem legitimate. Police officers will never ask you to make a payment or purchase, withdraw or transfer money, or ask for your bank details.

“These incidents have a huge impact on victims, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to warn residents about signs of courier fraud to prevent further cases in Dorset.”

Dorset Police has shared advice for anyone who suspects a call may be fraudulent:

• Your bank or the police will never ask for your PIN.
• Neither the police nor the banks will send a courier to collect money from you.
• If you're asked to telephone a bank, always make the call on a different phone to the one you were contacted on.
• Do not rush into complying to the scammers demands.
• If you have already given your bank details over the phone or handed your card details to a courier, call your bank straight away to let them know and request that they cancel the card.

The Fraud Protect team are keen for residents to share advice with friends and members of their family and local community to ensure they are aware of these scams and feel confident spotting the warning signs.

If you suspect you may have been a victim of courier fraud, report the incident to Action Fraud UK online: www.actionfraud.police.uk or by phone 0300 123 2040.

For more information about fraud, please visit: https://www.dorset.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/door-to-door-courier-fraud/#:~:text=Examples%20of%20courier%20fraud,using%20your%20details%20and%20cards