Warning to residents after Blackburn courier fraud scam

Courier Fraud is on the rise in East Lancashire, with another two recent reports of attempted courier fraud in Blackburn.

Both victims received a call from someone who introduced themselves as a police officer. The fraudster has then gone on to say that someone has tried to use their bank card and steal money from them.

Thankfully, neither victim lost any money, and both incidents were reported to police and are currently being investigated.

DC Eve Maderson of Lancashire Constabulary said: “These are two cases of attempted courier fraud, which could have ended far worse than it thankfully did.

“These two individuals’ suspicions’ were raised by the phone call they received and reported it to us. Doing so saved them from the probable loss of thousands of pounds.

Here’s key advice when it comes to protecting yourself from fraud:

The police, or your bank will NEVER ask you to assist with an investigation over the phone, withdraw or transfer money or buy high value items.

The Police, or your bank will also never send someone to collect cash, items, PINs, cards or Chequebooks from you, from any location.

You can always call us on 101 to verify that the person you are talking to is genuine. You can ask us to confirm an officer’s name or collar number is legitimate.

Make sure you verify who you are talking to. Clear the line, and phone us on 101 from a different phone, or wait at least five minutes to contact us, or a trusted person.

Residents are asked to be vigilant of these scams, make your loved ones, especially those who may be more vulnerable aware of what these scams may look like.

If you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank on their genuine number to secure your finances.

If you have any concerns, ring 101 or contact Action Fraud.