Northampton man arrested in Hatfield phone fraud probe

At least three people are thought to have been talked into sending cash through the post

Fraud police intercepted parcels of cash worth more than £16,000, sent by the unwitting victims of a suspected phone scam.

At least three people are thought to have been talked into sending cash to an address in Hatfield, Hertfordshire.

All had been told the caller was from their bank and were investigating fraudulent activity, police said.

A 27-year-old man from Northampton was arrested in Hatfield in connection with alleged fraud.

He was later released on police bail while Hertfordshire Police's investigation continued.

Police have urged anybody who might have fallen victim to such a crime to contact Action Fraud

Police were told of the scams and managed to seize the cash parcels before they were handed over by the postal service.

Det Con Craig Blake, from Hertfordshire Police's serious fraud and cyber unit, said: "These types of phone scams are unfortunately quite common, with fraudsters posing as bank staff or police officers.

"The important thing to remember is that you will never be asked to hand over cash or personal banking details by legitimate callers."

He urged anybody who might have fallen victim to such a crime to contact Action Fraud.

A spokesperson for the police said: "If you are not happy with a phone call and are suspicious of the conversation you're having with the caller then please end the call and dial 101 or report online.

"Remember, when reporting a suspicious phone call to police, wait at least five minutes before attempting to make the call to ensure you're not reconnected to the offender.

"Alternatively, use a mobile phone or test your landline by phoning a friend or relative first, to ensure you aren't still unwittingly connected to the offender."