Kent Police warns residents of new courier fraud scam

Kent Police has received reports of fraudsters trying to trick people into purchasing high value watches and then handing them over to someone who claims to be a police officer.

Victims are being called at home by fraudsters pretending to work for the police. They claim they need the victim to help them in a police investigation into illegal activity taking place in specific stores.

Victims are then instructed to go to these jewellery stores and purchase a single or series of expensive watches. They are told not to tell anyone that they are helping in this investigation and that they will get a refund from the police when they hand the watch over.

The fraudsters then arrange for the watch to be collected by someone pretending to be an officer wearing plain clothes who does not hand any money over to the victims.

On Tuesday 7 September 2017 a man in his eighties from Gravesend was called and allegedly told to travel to New Bond Street, London to buy two watches. After purchasing one he made his way to a second store, and attempted to purchase another.

The bank were concerned at the high value spend and as a result the second purchase was not authorised.

Staff became worried as he left the store in a hurry and notified the police. Officers were able to secure a refund for the watch he had purchased.

Detective Sergeant Marc Cananur said: ‘We are currently conducting enquires into these incidents but would like to remind people how to spot the signs of a fraudulent phone call.

‘Sadly, we are seeing more cases like this and I would encourage friends and family members to pass on fraud prevention advice to help protect residents who may not be aware of these types of scams.’

Protect yourself against courier fraud, remember:

• The police or your bank will never send a courier to your home to collect your bank card or other items and will never ask for cash, valuables, or your PIN.
• If you receive one of these calls end it immediately without providing information.
• If you wish to call your bank use a number known to you, not one provided by the caller. Call from another phone, or call a friend first to ensure the offenders have been disconnected from your line.
• If you’ve handed over any personal bank details to a fraudster, call your bank and cancel your cards immediately.