Vulnerable Ipswich woman loses £1,700 in telephone scam
Police believe the incidents are linked. (stock image) Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN - Credit: Archant
A vulnerable woman from Ipswich lost £1,700 after being targeted by a telephone scam just after Christmas.
The woman, aged in her 50s, received a call on Thursday, December 28, from a man claiming he was from Virgin Money.
He persuaded her to give him her bank details over the phone and then instructed her to transfer £1,700 over the phone to Thailand, which she did.
The following day the lady then visited her local bank to transfer a further £6,000 to the same scammers.
Bank staff intervened and contacted police, which ensured the woman lost no more money.
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Police are warning members of the public to be vigilant following the incident, and have issued advice regarding scams.
Suffolk police said: “Your bank or the police will never ask you to withdraw money, purchase items, or ask for your PIN, bank card or bank account details over the phone – never give these details out.
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“If you receive such a call leave the landline for at least five minutes to make an outside call.
“Fraudsters will keep the line open and have been known to play ring tones, hold music and a recorded message down the phone so the victim believes they are making a call to a legitimate number. Use a friend or neighbour’s telephone instead.
“Friends, family, carers and neighbours are asked to spread the word to ensure everyone is aware of this scam and what they should do.”
For advice on keeping yourself safe against scams, visit www.suffolk.police.uk/advice/crime-prevention-z
