Relief As £107k Online Scam Foiled

An elderly woman from Co Down has been saved from an online scam worth almost £107,000.

Fraudsters struck when the target, aged in her seventies, was searching online for investment opportunities in October.

The woman gave her details to what she believed was a genuine company, but was in fact communicating with fraudsters. She subsequently received correspondence from a male from this rogue company and, believing this to be a legitimate investment opportunity, she electronically transferred close to £107,000 to an account.

After growing suspicious of the transaction, the woman realised she had sent the money to a bogus company. She immediately reported this to police, who contacted the relevant finance companies and stopped the transfer of funds.

Chief Superintendent Simon Walls said: "This is a massive relief for this woman who had wanted to use her hard earned savings for her future but, thankfully, it appears we have thwarted an attempt by a scammer to get away with what is a huge amount of money.

"I want to thank the woman for having the courage to tell us about what happened to her, as often people who are targeted in scams are embarrassed to come forward, however, this is an example of why it is so important to tell police and to tell us quickly.

"Unfortunately, this shows there are still unscrupulous individuals who often look legitimate, and operate increasingly sophisticated scams, who get up every day and set out to con people out of their money."

Police later issued a fresh call for vigilance.

Chief Superintendent Walls continued: "Fraudsters know all the tricks and you can never be too cautious.

"Scammers have no regard whatsoever for the impact of their actions, which can be devastating.

"Our message is simple. Never disclose your personal or banking details to anyone over the phone or online, no matter how convincing they may seem, and never allow an unauthorised person to have access to such details via your computer.

"If you have any concerns about unsolicited calls, emails or letters, then please report it to Action Fraud via their website www.actionfraud.police.uk or by phoning 0300 123 2040. You can also call police on the non-emergency number 101."



(JG/CM)