Dear Resident

Please be aware that there has been a recent increase in Courier Fraud in Cheshire East.

Courier Fraud - What is it?

Courier fraud occurs when a fraudster contacts a victim by telephone purporting to be a police officer or bank official. The fraudster may provide some basic personal information or request the victim to contact their bank or local police station. They will then either pass an incorrect number, or stay on the line whilst a legitimate number is dialled.

Fraudsters may then use similar stories as:

- Bank employees are under investigation but the police need more evidence.

- Money has been removed from the victims bank account and staff at the local branch are responsible.

Victims are then asked to co-operate in an investigation by attending their bank/building society/post office and make a large withdrawal which will then get handed over to a courier for examination who will also be a fraudster.

At the time of handover , unsuspecting victims are promised that the money will be reimbersed but in reality the victim never hears from the fraudsters again.

Protect yourself

- Your bank and police will never call to verify personal details or PIN by phone, or offer to pick up your card by courier. Hang up if you get a call like this.

- If you need to call your bank to check following a phone call, use another phoneline or leave it 5 minutes before dialling; fraudsters may stay on the line after the call.

-Your debit and credit cards are yours - don't let a stranger take it off you.

Please see attached poster and contact police if you believe you are a victim of courier fraud.

Many Thanks

Victoria Moulton

Crime Prevention Officer