Scam alert: Courier fraud
Fraudsters are cold calling and pretending to be from your bank or from the police. They may claim there is an issue with your bank account, or payment card or request your assistance with an ongoing bank or police investigation.
The fraudster will claim that they are conducting an investigation, often saying that it involves corrupt bank employees or police. They will then ask for your help or say that your account is at risk.
The aim of this call is to trick you into parting with your money either in person or online.
Remember, your bank or the police will never ask you for your PIN, bank card, or ask you to withdraw money.
What to watch out for
- If you are asked to withdraw a large sum of money which they will send a courier to collect as “evidence” for the investigation. They might say the money is counterfeit or that it needs to be send for forensic analysis.
- They may also ask you to do this with foreign currencies.
- They might ask you to provide your PIN over the phone and to hand over your cards to a courier.
- You may be asked to purchase high value items (such as watches or jewellery) which will also be collected by a courier.
If you receive an unexpected call asking you for banking and personal information, hang up and use a different phone to call your bank.
How to avoid falling for these scams
- Be wary of unsolicited phone calls requesting banking or personal information.
- Speak to friends and family before carrying out any actions.
- Do not trust cold callers.
- Never share your banking PIN.
Remember to stop and take five. How do you know they are who they say they are?
What action should you take?
- If you receive a call and suspect it to be fraudulent, hang up
- If you are suspicious about an email you have received, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk
- If you are suspicious about a text message you have received, forward it to the number 7726, which is free-of-charge
- If you believe you have been the victim of fraud, you should report this directly to Action Fraud as soon as possible by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting actionfraud.police.uk
If you think you may have handed over your bank details to scammers, please contact us immediately.
Further reading
Courier Fraud – Take Five Official Website
