Be on the alert for bogus phone callers seeking your bank account details
Police are reminding Sussex residents, especially the elderly, to stay on the alert for bogus phone calls and visitors after 35 cases of ‘courier fraud’ or attempts so far in May including six on one day.
But thanks to alert residents and bank staff, only six attempts succeeded. In several of the cases residents have received phone calls from someone purporting to be a ‘Detective Chief Inspector Richard Harrison’. There is no such officer. The caller alleges that there has been unauthorised use of a debit or credit card, that someone has been arrested, and that there is an investigation ongoing.
The caller says that the resident must both supply their PIN and other card details over the phone, and hand the card or cards to a courier who would arrive at the door.
However, thanks to the alertness of residents, and in six cases thanks to the alertness of bank staff, only six of the 35 attempts were successful, with a total loss of £24,800 – the biggest single loss was £7,900. The oldest victim was 96 years old. 18 were in West Sussex, 16 in East Sussex, and one in Brighton.
PC Bernadette Lawrie, the Sussex Police Financial Abuse Safeguarding Officer said; “Remember – no police officer, or bank staff on the phone, will ever ask for your bank details or for cash. Don’t give your details or cash to anyone in these circumstances!”
For further advice on fraud prevention, and information on Operation Signature, the work done by Sussex Police to prevent fraud and support victims, also see the force website here.
Summer-Time Thefts
There have been a few thefts locally, in Pulborough, from insecure sheds and garages. The Police are asking residents to ensure that all outbuildings are locked and secured at all time. For more information and advice Please click on their link: https://www.sussex.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/non-residential-burglary/secure-shed-garage/
Help the Police keep Sussex safe
If you see or hear anything, or have any information about any incident, please contact us online, email us at 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting the reference number provided.
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
