SURREY Police are warning Waverley residents to remain vigilant following a number of recent courier fraud offences in which pensioners were contacted over the phone by individuals impersonating police officers.

The victims, predominantly over 70, have been contacted by both men and women claiming to be from police forces such as the Metropolitan Police Service. Some victims have even been issued with bogus crime reference numbers.

Courier fraud involves a telephone call being made by someone often pretending to be in an authoritative position.

They explain there has been an issue with your bank, or that a crime involving your money has taken place in order to gain your card details. A courier is then sent to collect either money or bank cards.

In one case, a woman in her 70s, from Godalming, was told to withdraw £4,000 to assist with a supposed police investigation. Another victim was told his card details had been stolen and £5,000 removed. No money was exchanged however he did divulge the details of his address.

If you know of anyone who may be at risk be aware of some of the warning signs. Fraudsters usually:–

• Cold call victims on their landline

Make a claim to gain the victims trust and encourage the victim to give specific personal information

• Arrange to collect the victim’s bank card from their home address.

You can take a number of steps to protect yourself:

• Don’t give personal details, bank cards, 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 sticker packs which can be put on telephones as a reminder not to give out details.

Call the Citizens’ Advice helpline on 0345 404 0506.

TrueCall provide hardware that can block unwanted telephone calls including nuisance and scam calls. Registering free with the Telephone Preference Service can reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive.

Call 0345 070 0707 or visit www.tpsonline.org.uk