A fake police officer manipulated a pensioner into buying and handing over a £17,000 Rolex watch. The retiree was contacted by someone purporting to be a police officer who claimed someone had been arrested trying to make a purchase on her card.
She was given a number to call and the name of a bank employee she needed to speak to – but that person was also a fraudster. After gaining the elderly woman’s trust, the fraudster told her she needed to purchase a £17k-£20k Rolex from a jewellers in Nottingham to assist with the police investigation.
The woman did as she was told and the watch was later collected by a courier. Police have not confirmed where the incident took place. Nottinghamshire Police has received 18 reports of courier frauds since October 18, with five victims losing money or expensive jewellery.
In three other incidents, victims were persuaded to withdraw large sums as part of a covert police operation. The victims were told their bank was suspected of distributing counterfeit bank notes and that officers needed them to withdraw cash so the notes could be checked.
Three of the victims lost £8,000 while a fourth person lost £6,000.
Fraud Protect Officer Dale Richardson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Fraudsters can be incredibly deceptive in their methods but there are plenty of ways in which you can protect yourself against them. Never give any personal details, your bank card or PIN. If you suspect a fraudulent phone call, hang up the phone and wait five minutes, then call 101. Never use redial.
“It is important people know how to spot the signs of a fraudulent phone call so their finances are not put at risk and I would encourage friends, neighbours and family members to us help protect those who may be particularly at risk from these types of scams.”
If you think you or someone you know has been defrauded, you can report it by calling Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
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