Cumbria Police have alerted residents to an increase in fraud incidents, urging caution especially among vulnerable groups. Fraud Protect and Prevent Officer Fran Henderson highlighted the growing concern over courier fraud and phone scams, which have led to significant financial losses in the community.
The police emphasise the importance of vigilance and advise residents to take time before responding to suspicious calls or requests for personal information or money.
Rising Fraud Cases in Cumbria
Fran Henderson, who works within Cumbria Constabulary to protect residents from fraud, noted that the county has seen numerous cases where individuals have been tricked into sharing personal details or handing over cash. She explained that victims of fraud are often targeted repeatedly because their information is circulated within the criminal underworld, particularly on the dark web.
This sharing of data increases the risk of further fraud, making prevention and awareness crucial.
Understanding Courier Fraud
Police have expressed particular concern about courier fraud, which is more serious than many realise. Contrary to common belief, courier fraud does not involve fake parcel delivery emails but rather phone calls where fraudsters convince victims to give money or debit cards to couriers under false pretences.
One recent case involved an elderly woman who was persuaded to withdraw a large sum of money to buy expensive jewellery. She was misled into thinking she was assisting police as a secret shopper investigating sub-standard gold sales.
Phone Fraud Tactics
Phone fraud involves criminals persuading individuals to disclose personal information during calls, which is then used to commit further fraud. Ms Henderson advises people to pause and take five minutes after receiving such calls, suggesting they say, “Okay thank you very much, I’ll call you back,” before hanging up.
She stresses never to return calls using numbers provided by the caller. Instead, individuals should contact the organisation directly through official numbers, such as dialing 101 for Cumbria Constabulary or verifying through the Metropolitan Police switchboard if the caller claims to be from there.
Advice to Protect Against Fraud
Ms Henderson warns that fraudsters may remain on the line pretending to be police officers even after the victim attempts to end the call. She encourages residents to take time, discuss suspicious calls with others, and avoid reacting immediately to pressure tactics.
She also emphasises that police, banks, or other official agencies will never ask for bank details or PIN numbers over the phone or in person. Requests to withdraw money or purchase high-value goods for safekeeping as part of an investigation should be treated as fraudulent.
Additional Protective Measures
To reduce nuisance calls, Ms Henderson recommends the use of call blockers, which statistics show can cut up to 95% of unwanted calls. This measure, combined with increased awareness and caution, is vital in protecting residents from falling victim to fraud.
