Leicestershire Police, who also work across Rutland, have warned residents to remain vigilant as the area sees an increase in courier fraud and other similar scams.

The team shared on Neighbourhood Link: "We would like to raise some awareness regarding recent reports of Courier Fraud."

Using a variety of different tactics, usually involving the impersonation of police officers and bank staff, criminals will call their victim and convince them into withdrawing a sum of money and handing it over to a courier who is sent to their home.

The team continued: "Criminals will target anyone, but recent victims are often elderly, and thousands of pounds have been lost. 

"It is worth visiting sites such as Action Fraud, Age UK and Crime Stoppers for more detailed information to familiarise yourself with what Courier Fraud is, signs to look out for and to hopefully help friends, relatives and neighbours.

"Raising awareness may be the difference from someone losing thousands of pounds instead of just hanging up the phone. 

"Remember that people of all ages can be targeted and have fallen victim to these types of crime. The impact this can have on people is devastating. If you have fallen victim to this, please call your bank directly, immediately. It is really important to never give your bank details out over the phone."

Did you know you can report crime and incidents using the Leicestershire Police online portal. In an emergency dial 999.

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Do not report crime or Incidents via Neighbourhood Link as the messages are not always monitored.

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