Police are warning the public to be vigilant after receiving report of an elderly woman being targeted by a shopping scam.
A woman in her eighties reported being called by someone claiming to be from the NHS on Monday (20 April), in Hove. The fraudster called her three times in total over the course of 10 days and asked if she needed her shopping to be done.
They then proceeded to ask if they could come collect her bank cards to pick up her pension. Thankfully, the victim refused and no money was lost.
PC Bernadette Lawrie, Sussex and Surrey Police Financial Abuse Safeguarding Officer said: “Criminals will exploit any opportunity possible to defraud innocent and vulnerable people out of their cash – and it’s incredibly disappointing to see that some are taking advantage of the Covid-19 outbreak for this purpose.
“We’re asking members of the public to please remain vigilant and to share our advice with their families so we can prevent further people falling victim to this terrible scam.”
There are many people in our communities who aren’t able to get out to the shops, or to get their medication, and it’s really important that they get the support they need.
Hailsham Crisis Support is a large group of volunteers in town offering help and support to the elderly and vulnerable. Residents are being urged to always check for ID – these volunteers always carry a card on a lanyard (pictured).
For more information about Operation Signature, the Force’s campaign to identify and support vulnerable victims of fraud, see the website here.
To report crime, please call 101 or report online.
