Warning over bike thieves using fake bank apps

Sgt Claire Williams said victims should not be embarrassed

Police have issued a warning to motorbike owners across the country over a scam involving fake banking apps.

West Yorkshire Police said officers had seen an increasing number of thieves using bogus software to con people who are selling their bikes.

The force said the apps were designed to dupe sellers into thinking the buyer was transferring money to them but "in fact no transfer is taking place".

Sgt Claire Williams said: "We need motorbike owners to be aware and be cautious if they are looking to sell on their vehicle to help protect themselves from this kind of crime."

The force said a specialist team dealing with incidents involving motorcycles and off-road vehicles had identified victims from as far as Devon and Newcastle had fallen victim to theft offences in Leeds.

Sgt Williams said: "We know people may be embarrassed if they have fallen victim to a scam but please know that you are not alone and are not at fault."

She said the apps used in the scam "look like the real thing", with some thieves also using an accomplice to pose as a bank employee and ask "all the right security questions and act in the way that people would expect from a bank".

"Those involved in these kinds of crimes are taking steps to make what they do look legitimate," she added.

Victims are being urged to report the thefts to police to help the force "understand the true picture" of offending and the links between them.

Police have advised anyone selling a motorcycle to meet buyers in a well-lit, CCTV-covered area and to research them beforehand.

They said sellers should also confirm the money has arrived before handing over any property and not go ahead with the sale against your own instincts.

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