New violent card fraud threat
Police in London are highlighting a spate of card crimes with fraudsters aiming to get cards and PINs and threatening victims with violence.
Some 13 cases in north and east London have been reported where people are tricked into handing over their cards.
They have been phoned by a man claiming to be from the fraud department of a bank - usually Barclays - and claiming some fraudulent activity has taken place on an account and claiming thousands of pounds has been removed from accounts or TVs had been bought.
The scam takes a new turn as a courier, from a legitimate firm, is sent to pick up the card - claiming it is needed for analysis.
The victim is then called once more and asked for the PIN.
The scam turns nasty as threats are often made. On one occasion a woman was told she would be raped and one man was told he would be shot if they did not reveal their PIN numbers.
Detective Constable Deveci, from Chingford police, said: "We would appeal for anyone with information about these crimes to please come forward.
"Although all the victims are Asian, we think the suspects are simply cold-calling people and trying their luck. They can sound convincing and have managed to persuade people to hand over their bankcards and PIN numbers. Please be aware this scam is being carried out across north and east London and don't be taken in.
He added: "We are also appealing for courier companies to be on their guard and report any incidents to us as the services of genuine companies are being abused by these fraudsters."
If a bank has concerns over your account under no circumstances would they ask for the card.
If you are under any doubt about a call from a bank, put the phone down and call the bank on a number you already know.
Anyone with information or who has been a victim is asked to contact DC Deveci on 020 8345 3166 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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- identity fraud ,
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