Chatham man was the target of 'truly shocking' scam involving a man who pretended to be a Scotland Yard detective
Published: 15:43, 14 November 2018
Updated: 15:44, 14 November 2018
An elderly man had a lucky escape after scammers targetted him multiple times.
The Chatham resident was at home when he was approached by two male builders who told him his roof was damaged and they needed £5,000 to fix it.
He then visited his bank to withdraw money but the bank declined and called the police.
Officers spoke to him about what happened and gave him advice again in the future.
The next day the pensioner received a call from a man who introduced himself as DI Brown from Scotland Yard.
Allegedly he said the builders were scammers and that if they call again to go along with what they say.
Later that day the builders called and asked the victim to go to the jewellers and buy two expensive watches.
As instructed he went to the jewellery store but staff members realised it was a scam and called the police before any purchase was made.
Police fraud team Detective Sergeant Marc Cananur said: “The way that these fraudsters targeted the victim is truly shocking.
" After the first scam was blocked they again tried to take advantage of this man’s trusting nature.
“I would urge everyone to be aware of these scams and to remember that the police or your bank would never call and ask you to part with any cash or purchase goods as part of an investigation.”
Police advise the following to protect yourself from fraud
- The police or your bank will never send a courier to your home to collect your bank card or other items and will never ask for cash, valuables, or your PIN.
- If you receive one of these calls end it immediately without providing information.
- If you wish to call your bank use a number known to you, not one provided by the caller. Call from another phone, or call a friend first to ensure the offenders have been disconnected from your line.
- If you’ve handed over any personal bank details to the fraudster, call your bank and cancel your cards immediately.
- If you feel you have been a victim of fraud or know someone who has report it to Kent Police via 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
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Rachel Dixon