We are reminding the public to be vigilant when being asked for personal details by strangers, after receiving six reports relating to courier fraud in the past week.

The offences have taken place mostly in Leighton Buzzard, with one in Houghton Regis and one in Great Barford.

This type of fraud often starts with a cold call where the fraudster claims to be a police officer or a bank official.

The fraudsters will say there’s an issue with the victim’s bank account or request their assistance with an ongoing bank or police investigation. The ultimate aim of this call is to trick the victim into handing over money or bank details.

Detective Sergeant Ann Ward from Bedfordshire Police’s Serious Fraud Investigation Unit said: “Unfortunately this is a very common crime type in which the perpetrators prey on the elderly and vulnerable. They end up losing valuable amounts of money and savings, which in turn leads to upset and worry. 

“Please remember that the police will never ask you to withdraw money for them or call you to ask for your bank details, and never ever share your debit or credit card with anyone else. They will also never ask for your jewellery to keep it safe.  

“We would advise that you always check the caller’s credentials. Never click any email link you are unsure of or respond to any unsolicited emails or calls. 
 
“If you take a call from someone who you believe is not genuine, hang up, and contact either Action Fraud or the police. Where possible use a different phone to make the call, in case the fraudulent caller is still on the line. 
 
“If you do give your details to someone who you later believe is not credible, it’s important that you contact the bank immediately. 

“We would also urge people to share this information with any elderly friends, family members or neighbours and remind them of the importance of keeping their personal information safe.” 

You can find out more about how to report any suspicious behaviour and how to help protect yourself from courier fraud at actionfraud.police.uk