Police warn Blackburn pensioners about phone scams where fraudsters pose as officers and ask for money.
One woman, in her 80s, got a call. The man said he was DC David Brown. He claimed Blackburn Police were investigating fraud. It involved the woman’s bank card.
Two men, also in their 80s, got similar calls. The callers pretended to be DC David Wright and PC Micheal Dodds. They said they were from Blackburn Police. Their station is on Ainsworth Street. In all three cases, victims shared no personal details.
DC Matt Gallagher wants people to think. Who is really on the phone? Don’t trust a call just because they know your name.
Banks and police won’t ask for PINs. They won’t collect cards from your home. Consider stopping unwanted calls. Use a Telephone Preference Service.
If unsure, hang up the phone. Use another phone to call your bank. Wait twenty minutes before calling. Fraudsters hold the line open. Using a different phone is safer.
Consider using a call blocker app. Phone companies provide them too. Share your concerns with a trusted person if worried.
Report suspicious calls to Action Fraud online. Use their website or call 0300 123 2040. You can also call the police at 101. Call 999 if a crime is happening now.