Courier Fraud6 min read22 June 2026
Courier Fraud and Doorstep Scams: How to Protect Yourself
Courier fraud targets older people and can result in losses of tens of thousands of pounds in a single day. Learn how these scams work and how to protect yourself and your family.
Courier fraud is especially distressing because it involves direct contact with the victim and can lead to the loss of cash, cards, jewellery, or personal information. The most important protection is to end the unexpected call and verify independently.
How Courier Fraud Works
The scam typically begins with a phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer or bank fraud investigator. They tell the victim that their bank account has been compromised and that they need to help with an undercover investigation. The victim is asked to withdraw cash, hand over their bank card, or give their PIN to a "courier" who will come to their home to collect it.
In reality, the caller is a fraudster and the "courier" is an accomplice. Once the cash or card is handed over, it is gone.
Variations of the Scam
- Bank impersonation: Caller claims to be from your bank's fraud department
- Police impersonation: Caller claims to be a police officer investigating corruption at your bank
- Utility company scam: Caller claims there is a problem with your gas, electricity, or water and sends someone to "inspect" your home
The Golden Rule
Your bank and the police will never ask you to withdraw cash, hand over your card, or give your PIN to anyone — ever. If you receive such a call, hang up and call your bank using the number on the back of your card, or call 999 if you believe a crime is in progress.
| What Fraudsters Say | The Truth |
|---|---|
| "We need you to withdraw cash for safekeeping" | End the call and verify through an independently known bank number |
| "Hand your card to our courier" | Banks never collect cards |
| "Don't tell your family — it's an investigation" | Designed to isolate you |
| "Call us back on this number to verify" | Always use the number on your card |
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