North Yorkshire Police Warn Residents of Rising Courier Fraud

Residents of North Yorkshire have been urged to exercise caution as local police warn of a surge in courier fraud schemes. Victims have reported losses averaging over £2,500 as fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to trick individuals into handing over money or personal information.

The North Yorkshire Police have emphasized the alarming trend, which has seen an increase in incidents throughout October 2023. In these scams, individuals receive phone calls from someone claiming to be a police officer. The caller often states that the victim is involved in a criminal investigation and that they must assist in apprehending criminals, leading the victim to unwittingly engage with the fraud.

Victims typically receive instructions to withdraw cash or purchase high-value items, which they are then instructed to hand over to a ‘courier.’ This courier, who is often an accomplice, arrives at the victim’s home to collect the money or items, leaving the victim financially bereft and vulnerable.

Detective Inspector Sarah Johnson of North Yorkshire Police has stated, “These scams are deeply distressing for the victims involved. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited calls, especially those claiming to be from the police.” She added that legitimate police officers would never ask for financial assistance or request that individuals withdraw money for such purposes.

To combat this growing issue, North Yorkshire Police are encouraging the public to be alert and to report any suspicious calls or encounters. They recommend that individuals verify any claims made by callers by contacting local police directly using official phone numbers.

The police also suggest several precautionary measures to protect against these scams. These include refraining from sharing personal information over the phone, not engaging with unknown callers, and being cautious of any requests for money that seem urgent or unusual.

As the number of reported incidents continues to rise, local authorities are increasing their outreach efforts, focusing on educating the community about the signs of fraud. They are working closely with community organizations to spread awareness and provide resources for those who may fall victim to such schemes.

The North Yorkshire Police have established a dedicated hotline for victims of fraud to report incidents and seek advice. This initiative is part of a broader effort to tackle fraud at a local level and to provide support to those affected.

Residents are reminded that while the landscape of crime may change, vigilance, and communication remain key in preventing victimization. The North Yorkshire Police remain committed to keeping the community safe, but they rely on the public to remain aware and proactive in safeguarding themselves against fraud.