THINK twice and don’t give out your personal details to someone you don’t know, is the message behind a campaign launched by Surrey Police aimed at vulnerable and elderly people, who are targeted by courier fraud.

Courier fraud involves a phone call being made by someone often pretending to be in a position of authority, typically from a bank. The caller explains there has been an issue with the victim’s account or a crime involving their money has taken place, and asks the victim to call back on another number.

The victim thinks they have hung up, but the conman stays on the line and pretends to be another person, who collects personal details such as an account number or bank card details, and requests money be withdrawn.

A courier is then sent to collect either money or bank cards. Such scammers often use a variety of tactics to appear plausible, by pretending to be from the police, bank or even Trading Standards officers.

They also change what they ask for, such as personal details, pin number or cash, both verbally, or by entering it into the keypad.

Sticker packs, leaflets, postcards and posters have been distributed to doctor’s surgeries, post offices and pharmacies across the county and police teams will be out and about promoting the campaign and measures which can be taken to prevent someone from falling victim to courier fraud.

Supt Natalie Moloney said: “We have seen a noticeable increase in courier fraud across the county and some of these victims are even being repeatedly targeted by scammers.

“These fraudsters are particularly despicable as they target elderly and vulnerable people by being extremely convincing, often succeeding in getting victims to part with thousands of pounds of their hard-earned life savings.

“We have launched this campaign to raise awareness of this scam not only to potential victims but also to their families and friends so they can take steps to protect themselves. The message is clear – never give out personal details to someone you don’t know and avoid becoming the next victim.”

• Don’t give banking details or money to someone you don’t know

• If you’re asked to call someone back, hang up and wait five minutes before calling back or use a mobile phone.

Trading Standards can provide stickers which can be put on phones as a reminder not to give out details. Call Citizens’ Advice on 03454 040506.

Register free with the Telephone Preference Service to reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive at www.tpsonline.org.uk or call 0345 070 0707