A pensioner sent thousands of pounds to fraudsters after falling for a sophisticated scam.
The 80-year-old from Southport received a letter in the post claiming to be from his bank.
The letter said that the man had been a victim of online fraud and to contact a number provided.
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When the man called the number he was told to withdraw £3,000 to fix the problem and to post the money by special delivery to an address in the West Midlands.
The pensioner followed the scammer's instructions and sent the money to the address.
Luckily, his family found out about the scam and contacted Merseyside Police.
Thanks to quick thinking officers they managed to inform Royal Mail and the money was intercepted before delivery.
Merseyside Police’s economic crime team and the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU) managed to get a search warrant and arrested a 26-year-old man from West Bromwich on suspicion of fraud by false representation.
Further cash was found and potential victims have been identified.
The man has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
Detective Inspector Holly Chance said: “Defrauding anyone is a heinous and despicable crime – but to target older more vulnerable people is particularly upsetting and absolutely shattering for victims and their families.
“In some cases victims have worked hard their entire lives, with a view to enjoying their retirement or passing their savings on to family, only to be preyed upon and see their savings taken. Their good and trusting nature can be ruthlessly exploited by criminals, and we are determined to prevent as many incidents as possible.
“We regularly visit the victims of fraud at home to provide additional support and advice to help prevent further offences.
“If you have, or are being subjected to fraud, or feel like you, or someone you care for, is being scammed, please get in touch."
If someone believes they have fallen victim to any kind of fraud then they can contact Action Fraud via their website www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling police on 101 @MerPolCC or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.
Advice to stop people falling victim to fraudsters:
- Never let callers into your home without checking their ID
- Don’t immediately agree to any offer or work without first seeking advice
- Don’t share your personal or financial details with someone that calls out of the blue
- Be wary of unexpected callers, either at the door or on the phone in case it’s a scam
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