TELEPHONE scammers claiming to be from the police and even from the fraud squad at Scotland Yard are targeting residents in Evesham and Pershore, police have revealed.
The latest trick from the scammers sees the caller pose as a police officer investigating suspicious activity on the recipient’s account and they must co-operate with the investigation.
The victim is then persuaded to withdraw funds and hand them over either remotely or in person to a courier.
The caller tells the victim if the bank cashier queries the large withdrawal, they should say it is for work or home repairs or Christmas shopping.
Some have been asked to hand over bank cards or other valuable items or transfer funds to another account operated by the fraudsters.
West Mercia Police have warned people not to make any payments as no legitimate bank, building society, police officer or business would never ask for cash, cards or pins.
The scams, the force said, were extremely convincing and manipulative as the fraudsters will often give alleged crime numbers, investigation details and job titles.
As well as not parting with cash, cards, PINs or personal information, people are urged to pass on the information about these scams to friends, relatives and neighbours, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.
Sgt Carl Jones said: “Scams can be very elaborate, very convincing and cruel. If you think someone is trying to scam you, tell someone straight away.
Anyone who finds themselves in these situations should provide no details, hand nothing over and contact Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
