This in from the police, in their own words, Ed
Police are warning residents on the Isle of Wight to remain vigilant following scams involving fraudsters obtaining bank details using bogus telephone calls and couriers.
On Monday, March 17 an elderly woman in Ryde received a call from a man claiming to be a police officer from the Metropolitan Police.
The victim was told that her credit cards had been used fraudently. Fortunately the victim thought this sounded like a scam and gave out no details.
She then contacted the Police.
Detective Inspector Sue Orr of Hampshire Major Investigation Team said:
“People have lost large sums of cash as a result of this fraud as often the elderly and vulnerable are targeted.
“We want to warn residents that these requests are not genuine and that no police officer or bank would operate in this manner. Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged not to give any details to the caller and report the matter to the police immediately.
“Any courier companies or taxi drivers that may have been asked to pick up such packages in the area are also urged to report this to police.
“If you have elderly relatives, friends or neighbours please make them aware of this scam and remind them not to give any details to unexpected callers. Remain alert and if you see them being approached by unexpected visitors please check who they are and ensure they are a legitimate caller.”
Advice for residents
People are reminded to protect themselves using the following advice:
- Never give out any personal information about your bank account to anybody over the phone.
- If someone calls claiming to be a police officer, ask for their identification number and police force. Hang up the call and advise that you will call them back using the 101 number.
- A genuine police officer will not mind waiting while you check. Call them back from a different phone if possible or wait at least 10 minutes before making the call.
- If you have given out information which could compromise your bank account security in any way, call your bank up to cancel your cards as soon as possible.
- Never hand over money to someone at the door to be sent off elsewhere.
- If someone comes to your door claiming to be a police officer or staff member, always ask for identification and make a note of their identification number. Ask them to wait while you verify their identity. Close the door and call 101.
Anyone who is concerned about similar incidents should contact police by calling 101. If a crime is in progress, please call 999.
