Police are reminding the public that a police officer will never ask you to withdraw money to assist with a criminal investigation following three attempted courier frauds in East Lancashire this week.
In the first incident a woman in her 80s received a phone call from a man purporting to be called DC David Brown from Blackburn Police who was investigating fraudulent activity on the victim’s bank card.
In the second incident a man in his 80s received a phone call from a man purporting to be called DC David Wright of Blackburn Police Station, Ainsworth Street, who was investigating fraudulent activity on the victim’s bank card.
In the third incident a man in his 80s received a phone call from a man purporting to be called PC Micheal Dodds of Blackburn Police Station, Ainsworth Street, who was investigating fraudulent activity on the victim’s bank card.
The victims did not provide any personal details in any of the incidents.
DC Matt Gallagher, from the Fraud Triage Team, said: “I would ask our residents to consider who is on the other end of the line. Don’t assume a phone call is authentic just because someone knows your name and address.
“Your bank or the police will never call you asking for personal details such as PIN numbers or offer to pick up cards or items from your address. Consider registering with a Telephone Preference Service to stop unsolicited calls / marketing calls making their way through.
“If you are in the slightest doubt during a phone call, hang up – either use a different phone or wait 20 minutes before calling either your bank, Action Fraud or the police. This is because fraudsters often leave the line open waiting for you to use the phone so the safest method is using a different device.
“I would also ask that you consider installing a call blocker. These can be done through phone companies /through phone applications.
“If you feel worried or concerned about a call – alert someone you trust and tell them.
“I would ask anyone who is concerned about this type of contact to report this into Action Fraud online via https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or by calling 0300 123 2040. Alternatively, contact the police by calling101. If a crime is ongoing call 999.”
Campaigning cricketer and suffragette among ideas for Nelson town history trail
Blackburn man jailed for breaching Criminal Behaviour Order
Where Blackburn town deal cash is spent could be changed
Trading Standards operation caught on camera
New diversions in place as work continues to repair damaged road following landslip
Blackburn culture drive boosted with £760,000 grant
