An 84-year-old Aberdeen woman lost a four-figure sum after a scammer posing as a housing official stole her card and PIN.
The 84-year-old woman lives in Mastrick. She got a call on January 31, a Friday, from someone pretending to be from housing. He said she overpaid her rent money and that a housing officer would visit.
A man came to her home and offered to help with a refund. He requested her card and PIN number. Growing suspicious afterwards, she contacted a family member right away. The money had all gone already.
The suspect is a white male, appearing to be in his early 30s. He is about 5ft 6ins tall, with a stocky build. The man had short brown hair and wore a black jacket and dark trousers, police reported.
Police warn that scammers are heartless criminals. These criminals target vulnerable people, often stealing their life savings. Police urge everyone to talk to elderly relatives and discuss this kind of fraud with neighbors too, to help them stay aware of the risk.
Scammers use tricky methods and try hard to seem real. They might even have your address. True callers never ask for your card or PIN, nor will they ask for financial details.
If you get this kind of call, hang up and don’t talk to the caller at all. Don’t let strangers into your home, and if you’re unsure, think for a moment. End the call and ask for help, getting advice from family or the police.
Victims or anyone with information should call 101, or contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. Your anonymity is always maintained.
