Warning over bank card scam

PEOPLE in Derby are being warned to watch out for a bank card scam.

Police say they have had reports from people in Allestree, Chaddesden, Derby city, Dronfield and Etwall, saying they have been called by someone claiming to be from Brixton police station or a fraud squad.

The caller then states that a family member or another person has been arrested for using the person’s bank card fraudulently. They then try to obtain money from the victims.

A police spokesperson said: “If you receive such a call you should not give out any personal information and hang up the call immediately. We know this type of call can be linked to courier fraud. This means that victims will be encouraged to withdraw funds from their bank accounts and give cash or bank cards to a courier arranged by the ‘police officer.’

“The police will never contact you asking for banking information or request that you withdraw money from an account, purchase gold bullion or high-value jewellery to aid an investigation.”

Police say fraudsters often target areas where they know elderly or vulnerable people live, so they are urging people to make family or friends aware of this scam.

The spokesman added: “If you, or someone you know, receives a call of this nature please contact us as soon as possible. We will then assess the area that is being targeted, alert the banks and endeavour to protect other local residents to prevent any financial loss.”

Police are advising anyone who receives one of these calls to end it, wait five minutes and ensure they can hear a dial tone before calling police.