Five people are facing charges over an alleged bank card scam targeting the elderly and vulnerable in Surrey.
The investigation was launched after a series of reports that false pretences were being used to obtain people’s bank cards and PIN numbers.
Victims receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from their bank telling them there is an issue with their card and a courier has been arranged to pick it up. The victims were then asked to reveal personal information including their PIN number and current bank balance.
Another tactic is to leave a courier-style notice through the victim’s letterbox, pretending to be from the bank.
Once a victim makes contact they are asked to disclose bank details and told their card needs replacing. A person dressed as a courier will then later arrive at the victim’s address to take their card.
The five men, all from south London, have been charged with conspiracy to commit fraud and conspiracy to steal.
Detectives said the investigation was continuing and further charges were expected.
Detective Inspector Paul Rymarz, of the Cross Border Investigation Team, said: “We are looking at a large number of these offences and have now charged several individuals as part of our on-going investigation.
“I would like to remind people to be on their guard. Banks do not use courier services to deliver or pick up bank cards, and you should never give your PIN number to anybody. If you are unsure if a caller is genuine, do not give them any information but say you will call back the bank on a number you recognise, for example on the back of your bank card.
“If you think you have been a victim of this type of offence and have not yet reported it please contact police immediately.”
For further information visit the Surrey Police website.
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To report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use our online fraud reporting tool.
