Courier Fraud in Essex: How It Works and How to Protect an Older Relative
Updated: Oct 26
Courier fraud starts with a phone call. The caller says they are from the police or your bank, and that your account or cards have been compromised. They then arrange for a courier to collect your cards, cash or valuables "for safekeeping". The courier is part of the scam. Older people are often the target, so it is worth talking it through with a parent or grandparent before it happens.
How the scam usually unfolds
A call comes in from someone claiming to be a police officer or bank fraud team member.
They say there has been suspicious activity, or that a bank employee is under investigation, and ask for your help.
You are told not to use your cards or tell anyone, sometimes not even your family or your bank branch.
They may ask for your PIN, or ask you to withdraw cash or buy valuables.
A courier or "officer" arrives at the door to collect the cards, cash or items.
Why it catches people out
The caller sounds calm and official, and it feels sensible to help the police. The urgency and the instruction to keep it secret are what stop people checking. Anyone can be taken in by a convincing call, so there is no shame in it.
Warning signs to share with your relative
A call out of the blue about your account, cards or a fraud investigation.
Being asked to keep the call secret.
Anyone asking for your PIN, or for cash, cards or valuables to be handed over.
A courier or officer turning up to collect something you were told to expect.
The caller suggesting you ring a number they give you to "check" who they are.
The simple rule: the police and your bank will never ask for your PIN, or send someone to collect your cards, cash or valuables.
What to do if the call comes
Hang up. Do not share any details and do not hand anything over.
Scammers can keep a landline open after you hang up. Wait a few minutes and ring someone you know first to check you get a normal dial tone, or use a different phone.
Ring your bank on 159, which connects you to your own bank, or use the number on the back of your card.
Report it to Essex Police on 101, or 999 if someone is at the door or a crime is happening now.
Report the attempt at reportfraud.police.uk or on 0300 123 2040.
Tell a family member or neighbour, even if nothing was lost.
If someone turns up at the door
Do not hand over cash, cards, PINs or valuables, whoever they say they are.
Keep the door on the chain, or do not open it at all.
Ring 999 if you feel unsafe or the person will not leave.
How family can help
Talk about this scam before it happens. Agree a rule that nobody collects anything from the house without checking with you first, and put the numbers above somewhere easy to find by the phone. A call-blocking phone or service can also cut down on cold calls.
If you live further away and would like someone local to visit your relative regularly, Essex Home Support offers home help and companionship visits across Essex. Call 07719 634112 for a free, no-obligation chat.
