Second pensioner is conned out of cash by bank card scam

A second Paisley pensioner has fallen victim to a cruel bank card scam, police revealed last night.

Cruel conmen posing as bank staff stole a four-figure sum from the 80-year-old Seedhill man after tricking him in to handing over his card and PIN number.

They called him claiming his account had been compromised and convinced him to give them his security number, before sending a fake courier to collect the card.

They then used the cards at various locations to steal a four figure sum of money.

It comes just days after heartless fraudsters targeted an 81- yearold man in Glenburn in almost identical circumstances. He lost a three figure sum.

Now police have issued a warning over the sickening scam and urged people to be on guard and on the lookout for suspicious activity.

Detective sergeant Euan

McMillan, from Paisley CID, is leading the investigation.

He said: “This is clearly a sophisticated scam which involves various aspects.

“The bottom line is, vulnerable and elderly people are falling victim to it, and it is unacceptable.

“We are carrying out a range of enquiries around it at the moment in a bid to prevent any further crimes.

“We are working to establish how victims are being identified, so I would ask you to think back if you have had any cold callers at your door recently, or if you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the street.

“If so, we would like to hear from you.”

DS McMillan explained that no bank will ever ask for a PIN number over the phone as he offered advice in protecting against the fraud.

He added: “No bank will ever ask you for your PIN number and under no circumstances will your bank ever send someone to collect your bank cards.

“Calls can sound very believable, but I would urge people to be extra cautious at all times. If you receive a call which you are not sure about, hang up and call the bank back.

“Sometimes criminals will use a phone number similar to, or which may even match, the bank’s number.

“So we would urge you hang up and call back or have a family member call back on your behalf.

“If you have a vulnerable or elderly relative, please pass this information on to them.” If you have any information call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The bottom line is vulnerable and elderly people are falling victim...and it is unacceptable