Police Warn After Scam Hits 93-Year-Old in Tunbridge Wells
Residents in Tunbridge Wells have been hit with a chilling warning after a 93-year-old woman was conned out of £1,000 by fraudsters pretending to be police officers.
Fraudsters Pose as Detectives in Bold Scam
The elderly victim received a phone call on 22 January 2019 from a man claiming to be a detective from Hammersmith police station. He told her funds had been stolen from her bank accounts and urged her to withdraw cash for a “police investigation.”
Just days later, on 25 January, another scammer knocked on her door, posing as a member of the “Rapid Response Fraud Unit.” They collected £1,000 in cash.
Police Sound Alarm: Don’t Fall for This Scam
Kent Police were alerted on 29 January and launched an investigation. Inspector Chris Mayers warned: “A police force will never ask a member of the public for their bank details or money over the phone.”
He urged residents to hang up immediately if they receive suspicious calls and to wait five minutes before using their phone again to avoid letting scammers back on the line.
How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones
- Never hand money or valuables to couriers after such calls.
- If unsure, ask for the caller’s details and end the call immediately.
- Wait at least five minutes before redialling.
- To verify a caller’s legitimacy, contact 101 or, in an emergency, 999.
- Report suspicious calls to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at actionfraud.police.uk.
- Stay anonymous and report via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Inspector Mayers added: “These scams often target the most vulnerable, including elderly and disabled people. We urge friends, families, and neighbours to stay vigilant and protect those at risk.”
