Warning over 'fake police officer' fraud scam

Leicestershire Police has received reports of scammers claiming to be police officers in order to access bank cards

Police in Leicestershire have warned people to be on their guard following several reports of so-called courier fraud.

The scam involves the victims being contacted by criminals posing as police officers claiming their bank account has been subject to fraudulent activity.

They arrange for bank cards to be picked up by a fake courier as well as trying to persuade the victim to transfer cash from their accounts under the pretence of investigating the fraud.

Leicestershire Police said three people in their 70s and 80s had been targeted in the county and Rutland over the past few days but each had been wise to the scam.

Nicole McIntyre, from the force's Economic Crime Unit, said: "Those committing courier fraud try to prey on the elderly and vulnerable. They attempt to sound genuine and work quickly to gain the trust of the person they are calling.

"Thankfully on each of these three occasions, the person who was contacted became suspicious of what they were being told and refused to engage further.

"However, I'd encourage our communities to speak to one another to ensure no-one falls victim to such a crime.

"Please speak to anyone you know who is elderly or vulnerable to ensure they are aware too."