Police have issued a stern warning to residents across the Test Valley following a sophisticated “courier fraud” spree that saw an elderly woman fleeced of nearly £10,000.
The incident is one of three reported in the Andover area over the past week, prompting authorities to urge the public to remain vigilant against fraudsters posing as law enforcement.
The “Euro” Investigation Trap
On Thursday, April 16, a woman in her 70s was contacted by a man claiming to be an officer from the Andover Police Station. The caller alleged that the woman’s bank account had been compromised and requested her assistance in a sensitive “undercover investigation” involving counterfeit Euro notes.
Under constant instruction from the suspect—who insisted she remain on the phone throughout the process—the victim was persuaded to visit multiple locations in town to purchase thousands of pounds worth of Euros. Later that evening, a male courier arrived at her private residence to collect the cash under the guise of “evidence.”
The victim only realized the deception after receiving further suspicious calls, at which point she reported the crime in person to the authorities.
A Pattern of Targeting the Elderly
The Economic Crime Unit is currently investigating two other similar attempts in the region:
- Thursday, April 16: A man in his 90s was targeted but recognized the scam immediately.
- Saturday, April 18: A woman in her 70s received a similar call and successfully rebuffed the fraudster.
Investigators are working to determine if the three incidents are linked to the same criminal cell.
How Courier Fraud Works
Courier fraud typically follows a specific, high-pressure script designed to isolate and manipulate victims.
- The Hook: A victim receives a call from someone claiming to be a police officer, a bank official, or a service provider.
- The Crisis: The caller claims there is fraudulent activity on the victim’s account.
- The Request: The victim is asked to withdraw cash or purchase high-value items (like jewelry or foreign currency) to assist in an “investigation.”
- The Collection: A courier is dispatched to the victim’s home to pick up the assets.
“These fraudsters heartlessly target vulnerable people,” said Detective Constable Mike Dumbleton of the Economic Crime Unit. “Police officers, banks, and other agencies will never call people in this way and ask them to withdraw money.”
How to Protect Yourself and Others
Police have released a set of mandatory protocols for residents who receive suspicious calls:
- Verify Identity: If a caller claims to be a police officer, ask for their ID number and force. Wait at least five minutes before calling 101 to verify. Scammers often keep the line open so that when you pick up the phone to dial 101, you are still connected to them.
- The “Five-Minute Rule”: Use a different phone if possible to ensure the previous line has been disconnected.
- No Couriers: A genuine bank or police force will never send a courier to your home to collect cash, PINs, or cards.
- Break the Silence: Fraudsters rely on isolation. Always speak to a trusted friend or relative before making any financial decisions.
Authorities are calling on friends, relatives, and carers to check in on elderly neighbors. If you suspect a scam is in progress, dial 999 immediately. For past incidents, report via 101 or the official Report Fraud website.