A Hampshire couple has lost £70,000 in a courier fraud scam as police warn another 16 victims have lost thousands.

Police are urging residents in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to remain vigilant following 17 reports of courier fraud since the start of August.

This type of fraud typically sees a victim receive an unexpected call from someone who purports to be a police officer, a staff member from their local bank, or an employee from an internet or phone provider.

Recent reports of this in Hampshire have involved people claiming to be police officers from London.

They then tell the victim that their account has been subject to fraudulent activity and then request that the victim helps with the ongoing investigation, with this involving three things.

The first involves being asked for details about their financial accounts and bank cards.

The second sees victims being sent to their bank to withdraw money or being asked to buy high-value goods – with the third phase granting the caller access to their computer or phone, by downloading an application.

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Victims are then told to hand over money or an expensive item to a fraudulent courier, who will typically come to their home to collect it. 

They are also encouraged not to discuss this with any friends, family, or bank staff.

Since the beginning of August, officers have received 17 reports of courier fraud. Some of the offences have resulted in victims losing more than £10,000, while the largest loss has been £70,000. 

Officers are urging people to not engage with these types of calls. Victims are typically elderly, and officers are asking anyone with an elderly relative, loved one, friend or associate to please make them aware of this scam. 

Detective Constable Michael Dumbleton, from the Economic Crime Unit, said: “These fraudsters are heartless individuals who prey on some of the most vulnerable people living in our area.

 “Victims of courier fraud can be any age but are typically aged between 70 and 89 and I would urge everyone who has an elderly relative to make them aware of this type of fraud as soon as possible. 

 “These incidents can often have a huge impact on victims as they come to terms with the fact they have fallen for a scam, and the financial losses that come with it. 

 “We do not want anyone to fall victim to these scammers and we are taking steps to inform residents of courier fraud; so that they are aware of this type of contact and can avoid becoming a victim.