7:30am Saturday 15th August 2009
FRAUD experts have warned people to be vigilant about a cash scam that at least one person from the borough has fallen foul of.
It comes as detectives have released images of seven people they want to speak to in connection with a con that has cost pensioners across London more than £200,000.
The victims, who are often said to be “frail and vulnerable”, are called by con artists who claim to be police officers investigating a fraud on their bank account.
And people are being advised never to give out or hand over bank details to people without identification to avoid any loss.
Katy Worobec, of Financial Fraud Action UK, the banking industry's main fraud body, said: "In the past year we have seen a rise in scams of this type and clearly anyone could be targeted.
“Our advice, as always, is to never hand out your personal details, PINS or security information to anyone.
"Neither the police, nor your bank would ever ask you for such information, nor would they ever call at your door to request it.
“If you are concerned about any cold caller, ask them for their contact details so you can check them out- but always put your safety first.
"Rest assured, that if you are the innocent victim of this, or any other type of card fraud, you won't suffer any financial loss."
So far 12 people have been arrested in connection with the con and detectives are currently investigating a total of 72 linked offences, across London.
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