Lloyds Bank has sounded the alarm on a devastating courier scam that has already stripped customers of more than £120,000 in hard-earned savings. The sophisticated fraud operation is targeting Brits across the country, with victims typically losing around £1,500 each to these ruthless criminals.
How the Elaborate Scam Unfolds
The fraud begins with a convincing phone call from someone pretending to be a bank security official. The scammer informs their target about suspicious activity on their account, creating immediate panic and urgency.
The criminal then follows a carefully orchestrated process:
- Persuades the victim to move money to a "safe account"
- Sends a fake courier to collect the victim's bank card
- Obtains the PIN through deception or intimidation
- Quickly drains the account before the victim realizes what's happened
Who's Most at Risk?
According to Lloyds Bank fraud experts, certain groups are particularly vulnerable to these sophisticated attacks. The data reveals a worrying trend among those most likely to fall victim.
"These criminals are experts at psychological manipulation," explains a Lloyds security specialist. "They create such a sense of urgency that even normally cautious people make rash decisions."
Protect Yourself: Essential Security Steps
Lloyds Bank urges all customers to be vigilant and remember these crucial security principles:
- Your bank will NEVER send a courier to collect your card, PIN, or cash
- Genuine bank staff will NEVER ask you to transfer money to a "safe account"
- Always call your bank back using the number on the back of your card
- Take five minutes to think before acting on unexpected calls
If you suspect you've been targeted, contact your bank immediately using the official phone number and report the incident to Action Fraud. With courier scams becoming increasingly sophisticated, awareness and caution are your best defences against these life-changing crimes.
