27
Aug
Police warn of fraudsters targeting people in North Yorkshire
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North Yorkshire Police is warning the public to be stay vigilant following reports of bogus police officers and courier fraud attempts.
The force has seen an increase in fraudsters phoning people in North Yorkshire, claiming to be officers from New Scotland Yard or the Met police and informing them that someone has been arrested in London or elsewhere for using the victim's bank card.
How the scam works
The fraudsters ask the victims to verify their credentials by calling 999 or similar – this is part of the offence – and pretend to hang up so the victim can do this. But the scammers actually stay on the line, which means the call remains connected. A different offender will then take the '999 call', pretending to be a police officer, and collect the victim's confidential information.
In a statement posted online, North Yorkshire Police said:
Always be aware of the need to cancel and end a call properly, especially when using a landline. Try to use a separate or different device if you need to verify someone’s identity.
If you have concerns about a police officer’s identity – clear the call, wait for a dialling tone (if using a landline), then contact our control room via 101 who will be able to verify an officer's ID.
The force added that phone fraudsters may pretend to be police officers, bank staff, or officials from the Financial Conduct Authority. They often claim the victim's bank account is at risk and instruct them to withdraw or transfer cash, or hand over bank cards, PIN numbers, jewellery, or valuables to a “courier”.
Police advice
North Yorkshire Police urged readers to share the warning with friends, family, and neighbours – particularly older residents who are often the targets of these types of offences.
The force said that police officers will never:
• Ask for your PIN or online banking password
• Request you withdraw cash or ask you to part with valuables.
• Ask you to transfer money to a “safe account”
• Send a courier to collect money, cards, or valuables
North Yorkshire Police advises that on receiving a suspicious call, people should:
• Hang up immediately
• Contact your bank using the number on the back of your card
• Report it to the police via 101 or Report Fraud.
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