Cheshire Police warn of FCA impersonation courier scam

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Nov, 17:08 · Archive

Cheshire Police have warned of a scam in which fraudsters impersonate Financial Conduct Authority officials to trick people into handing over cash and bank cards.

Cheshire Police have warned of a courier scam in which criminals impersonate members of the Financial Conduct Authority to convince people to part with money and personal items. The scam begins with a phone call followed by a WhatsApp message, often containing an image of the FCA logo to appear more legitimate. Victims are then instructed to withdraw cash, hand over valuable items, or provide bank cards and PIN numbers, which fraudsters collect from their homes using Uber taxis.

So far, fraudsters have been successful on three occasions, with total losses believed to be around £10,000. Detective Constable Gareth Yates from Cheshire Police's Economic Crime Unit said the fraudsters are 'extremely convincing' and 'persistent', often targeting elderly or vulnerable people. He added: 'Many people may think they would never be a victim to this kind of crime; however, this really can happen to anyone.'

Cheshire Police have reminded the public that public officials would never ask anyone for money or to hand over valuable items. Mr Yates advised: 'If you are contacted by anyone claiming to be a public official, anyone asks you to hand over money, bank details or purchase anything to pass across to them, please contact us immediately.'

Cheshire Police warn of FCA impersonation courier scam — Image: Northwich Guardian

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How it is being reported

Warning as fraudsters pose as officials to scam victims into handing cash overCheshire Police warn of FCA impersonation courier scam targeting victims for cash, bank cards and PINs, with fraudsters collecting valuables via Uber taxis.Northwich Guardian · 13 Nov, 16:35
Warning as fraudsters pose as officials to scam victims into handing cash overCheshire Police warn of FCA impersonation courier scam targeting victims for cash, bank cards and PINs, with fraudsters collecting valuables via Uber taxis.Warrington Guardian · 13 Nov, 16:35

In this story: Cheshire Police · Financial Conduct Authority · Gareth Yates · Cheshire

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