Fraudsters pretending to be police officers are targeting elderly victims in Uttlesford by calling them up and asking them to transfer money.
Essex Police is appealing for the public’s help to warn older members of the community or vulnerable family or friends of the scam. Anyone who has had a similar call is also asked to contact police.
Said a spokesperson for the force: “We are appealing for the public’s help following several reports of fraud in Uttlesford.
“The first report came into Essex Police on 15 December, after an elderly female victim was contacted by someone pretending to work for the police. The victim was then asked to transfer money across to keep it safe as part of an ongoing investigation. Later in the day a call came in from a different victim with a similar report.
“On 24 December, another elderly victim was phoned by someone again pretending to be from the police. They asked him to change up over £4,000 into Euros or Dollars for collection. In all these instances, no money was stolen, and the investigation has been transferred to Action Fraud.”
The spokesperson added: “The police or bank officials will never ask for bank details over the phone. In many incidents like this, fraudsters are extremely convincing and will manipulate the victim into thinking that they are assisting with an investigation.
“We encourage anyone who may have had a call similar to this or have any information to contact us. We are also asking the…
