Local resident falls for Metropolitan Police Fraud Scam

The Public Protection Partnership (PPP), which works with the Citizens Advice in communities across Bracknell, West Berkshire and Wokingham to raise the awareness of scams, has recently seen an increase in the Metropolitan Police Fraud scam. As June is national Scams Awareness Month local resident, Mrs A, tells her story to warns others of the dangers of scams.

A professional career woman, Mrs A, who lives in West Berkshire, never dreamt she would become a victim of a scam so when she received a phone call from a very polite and well-spoken women who claimed she was the secretary of a ‘Chief Superintendent from the Metropolitan Police’, she took the matter seriously. Mrs A ended up drawing out over £21,000 from her two banks and handing it over to the criminals as the people she spoke to, and the scenario, were very convincing and she wanted to help the police. After the scam came to light, the PPP Trading Standards team challenged both banks and Mrs A was given a refund of £12,500.

Mrs A said: “On reflection I was made to feel special, important and crucial to the investigation. The scammers made me feel a confidant and able person and I felt really good about doing a duty for the Metropolitan Police and being responsible for catching criminals. When my daughter phoned the Thames Valley Police (TVP) and she was informed it was a scam I felt foolish, vulnerable, afraid and embarrassed for falling for it. However, now, as of a result of the help given to me by the TVP, Adult Social Care and the PPP, my confidence is returning and I no longer feel foolish or embarrassed. I am grateful for the support of all and am amazed that I got £12,500 back within days.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Chairman of the Joint Public Protection Committee, explained: “Scams Awareness Month is an annual opportunity to raise awareness and take a stand against the crimes and predatory practices which affect millions of people. Our partners, Citizens Advice, say that almost three-quarters (72%) of people surveyed have been targeted by scammers over a two year period (2015-2017). Over a third, have been targeted five or more times.”

Sue Mackie, Chief Executive Officer, Citizens Advice West Berkshire, said: “We encourage members of the public who have been a victim of a scam, or are concerned about someone they feel may be a victim of a scam, especially a vulnerable person, to contact Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.”

Alternatively contact the PPP Trading Standards service (01635) 519930 or email [email protected].”