Kent victims lose over £750,000 to fraudsters

Telephone scammers posing as police officers or bank staff tricked Kent victims out of more than three quarters of a million pounds last year.

Courier fraud typically begins with an unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer or bank employee. Victims are told their account is at risk or that they are assisting with an investigation, before being instructed to withdraw money, purchase valuable items, or disclose sensitive information.

A courier is then sent, often by taxi, to collect property that can include jewellery, cash, bank cards and PINs. Anything handed over to the courier is stolen.

Raising awareness

Kent Police is supporting a national campaign launched by City of London Police this week to raise awareness of the crime, which caused 86 victims in Kent to lose a total of £766,544.44 in 2025.

Detective Inspector Ian Sanderson of Kent Police said:

‘Fraudsters frequently target people who are elderly or vulnerable and may pretend to be from a trusted organisation before persuading them to hand over their valuables. They can also make contact by WhatsApp and pretend to be a relative in need of urgent cash.
‘Between 1 and 10 June this year, we received 30 reports of this type of offence of which 18 were to residents in the east of the county. The criminals were successful in only three of the incidents managing to steal more than £9,300.
‘We investigate reported frauds based on the evidence that is available and will always seek to track down those responsible and bring them to justice. We also have specialist staff who pay regular visits to banks and community groups to educate people on the warning signs. In this way, we hope victims will feel confident to stop, question and deter suspicious callers.'

Crime prevention advice

• Your bank or the police will never call you to ask you to verify your personal details or PIN by phone, or offer to pick up your card by courier. Hang up, wait a few minutes and call your bank on a number you know to be genuine (such as the one on the back of your card) or by calling 159.
• The police or your bank will not contact you out of the blue to participate in an investigation; or send a courier to your home to collect bank cards, cash, or other valuable items. Any requests to do so are a scam.
• Do not trust the caller ID display on your phone – it is not proof of identification.

Be cautious 

Remember, staying cautious and sceptical can go a long way in protecting yourself from courier fraud.

Take the time to verify information, seek advice from trusted sources, and never rush into making financial decisions under pressure.

If you think you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and call Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the website.