Chorley: Elderly man targeted by fraudsters claiming to be 'Blackburn Police'

The victim, a man in his 80s, was conned in Chorley and the case follows two similar crimes reported in Garstang earlier this month.

Police have warned people to be on their guard and to report suspicious behaviour to them, particularly cases of what they call “courier fraud.”

A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: “On Tuesday June 21 a man in his 80s was called from a detective claiming to be from Blackburn Police.

“The victim was asked to withdraw cash from his bank account, to assist with an investigation into counterfeiting at their local branch.

“On this occasion the victim withdrew £6,000, followed by a further €3,000 from a local travel agents.

“The fraudsters visited the victim’s home address, with a 'courier' collecting the cash.

“This type of crime is known as courier fraud.

“Courier fraud occurs when a fraudster contacts victims by telephone purporting to be a police officer or bank official.

“To substantiate this claim, the caller might be able to confirm some easily obtainable basic details about the victim such as their full name and address.

“The caller may also offer a telephone number for the victim to telephone or ask the victim to call the number on the back of their bank card to check that they are genuine.

“In these circumstances, either the number offered will not be genuine or, where a genuine number is suggested, the fraudster will stay on the line and pass the victim to a different individual.

“We are asking members of the public to remain vigilant and to report anything suspicious to us straight away. Please also share with friends, neighbours and family, particularly those who are elderly or vulnerable, who are often targeted.”

Anyone who believes a crime may be in progress has been urged to call police on 999, while less urgent reports can be made by calling 101.

Incidents can also be reported to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040.