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Residents in the Tipton, Great bridge & Princes End. What is courier fraud? Courier fraud is when someone contacts you by phone impersonating trusted authorities such as police officers or bank officials. They may even do this in person. They do this to trick you into handing over cash or your bank cards to them, or to a courier. Sometimes they trick victims into purchasing and handing over other expensive items, such as jewellery. The courier may not know they’re being used as part of the crime. It’s important to know that if this has happened to you, it’s not your fault and that there’s support for you. Common Courier Fraud Tactics in Sandwell Fraudsters typically target residents through a two-stage process: The Bogus Call: You receive a phone call from someone pretending to be a Police Officer or Bank Official. They claim your account is compromised or they need your help with a "secret investigation".The Collection: They instruct you to withdraw large sums of cash, purchase gold/jewellery, or provide bank cards/PINs. A "courier" is then sent directly to your door in Tipton or Great Bridge to collect these items. Essential Safety Advice from West Midlands Police Verification Rule: The police and banks will NEVER send a courier to your home to collect cash, cards, or valuables.The 10-Minute Rule: Scammers often stay on the line after you hang up so that when you try to call your bank, you are still talking to them. If you receive a suspicious call, wait at least 10 minutes before using the phone again or use a different phone entirely.Doorstep Security: Use a door chain or spyhole before opening the door to anyone you aren't expecting. How to Report and Stay Informed If you have been targeted or see suspicious activity: Action Fraud: Report the incident to Action Fraud online or call 0300 123 2040.West Midlands Police: Use the WMP Online Reporting Tool or call 101 for non-emergencies (always 999 in an emergency). More Information visit West-Midlands Police Website for door to door courier fraud. https://www.westmidlands.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/dtdc/door-to-door-and-courier-fraud/ Thank you for Tipton Police Station. | 
