Police are urged people in Blackburn to be vigilant after an elderly person was targeted by fraudsters.

The incident happened on Saturday October 5 when the victim received a call from someone purporting to be from their bank, claiming there had been a security breach on their account. 

The resident was then persuaded to place their bank cards into an envelope and write down their pin number. 

The envelope was then collected by someone claiming to be a courier. The victim’s money was then spent or withdrawn by the fraudsters. 

A police spokesperson said: “We take these reports very seriously, and an investigation is ongoing to find those responsible and bring them to justice. 

“Courier fraudsters operate in various ways to scam the victim – this can include posing as police officers or bank officials. 

“Common scams include requesting funds to be moved to a ‘secure account’, having items paid for with stolen money delivered to the property and a courier coming to collect them or couriers collecting cash/ bank cards from an address. 

“We’re asking people across Lancashire to be vigilant when it comes to courier fraud and want to give you some advice on how to prevent it. If there are people in your life who may be vulnerable to courier fraud, please let them know how to spot the signs.

“Remember that the police, or your bank will NEVER ask you to provide full passwords over the phone, withdraw or transfer money or buy high value items to aid with an investigation.”

Police urged people not hand over any item (including cash or bank cards) or information to anyone that attends your address. Police and banking staff would never take bank cards or cash from you.

Contact the police on 999 in the event that someone comes to the property purporting to be sent from the bank. 

If you receive an unexpected delivery or an item is sent to your address that you have not ordered and you are contacted by a stranger to arrange collection, do not hand over the item and contact the police. 

The police spokesperson added: “Do not agree to go into the bank to transfer or withdraw funds at the request of another – notify the cashier if any requests have been made of you by a third party.

“Scammers will often tell a victim that the investigation is covert and not to tell anyone.

“Make sure you verify who you are talking to and do not reveal any personal details. Clear the line, and phone us on 101 from a different phone, or wait at least two minutes to contact us, or a trusted person.

“If you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank on their genuine number to secure your finances. 

“If you or someone you know have been a victim of fraud, please contact us on 101, or call Action Fraud on 0300 1232040.”