Avon and Somerset Police are investigating an incident in which an elderly couple in Westgate Buildings in Bath were contacted by a bogus police officer claiming to be a investigating a fraud on their account.
The man claimed to be from London and convinced them to withdraw cash and give it to a courier sent to their home.
The courier collected the cash at about 5.30pm on Tuesday 12th June and was described as a man of mixed race appearance, about 6ft tall, broad-shouldered and wearing a high-vis vest.
Officers are appealing for anyone who spotted the man in the area at about this time, or anyone else with information which could help their enquiries, to contact them.
Be alert when answering the phone to anyone asking for bank details or for you to withdraw or transfer cash.
Banks and police officers will never ask for your PIN. Reputable callers will always give you time to verify their identification and won’t hurry or alarm you. They’ll be happy to call back when you can have someone you trust with you.
If you’re suspicious of a caller who says they’re a police officer, ring off and call 101 to check. Similarly, check with your bank or other service provider using the number on your statement or in the phone book.
Action Fraud is the national fraud reporting centre. Visit their website www.actionfraud.police.uk for a full list of scams and frauds and share the information if you have a vulnerable family member, friend or neighbour.
If you think you have been defrauded, contact Action Fraud on 0300 1232040.
