The police have thwarted an attempt by a scammer to swindle a Co Down woman in her 70s out of over £100,000.
The woman believed she was giving details to a reputable company online but, unknown to her, she was actually giving her details to a fraudulent company set up to emulate the genuine company.
She almost lost £107,000.
The fraudster struck when the woman was searching online for investment opportunities. She found a website purportedly of a company she had heard of before and knew to be reputable.
Police say she subsequently received correspondence from a man from this rogue company and, believing this to be a legitimate investment opportunity, she electronically transferred almost £107,000 to an account.
It was only when she queried the fraudster asking about the conditions of the investment that her suspicions were aroused.
She called the legitimate website office and asked to speak with the man with whom she had been corresponding.
She realised when she was told by the legitimate company that they did not have any such person working there, that she had been scammed.
After sending the money to a bogus company, the woman immediately reported the fraud to police on Tuesday, 29 October.
Chief Superintendent Simon Walls said an officer attended the victim’s house and, getting further details immediately, contacted colleagues in the Economic Crime Unit who, as trained financial investigators, were able to contact the relevant financial institution and instruct them to stop the transfer of funds.
“Had the funds been transferred, there is the possibility the money may not have been recouped.
“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,” he said.
And Chief Superintendent Simon Walls said unfortunately, this shows there are still unscrupulous people who often look legitimate, and operate increasingly sophisticated scams.
“I want to take this opportunity to appeal people to be vigilant. Fraudsters know all the tricks and you can never be too cautious,” he said.
And Chief Superintendent Walls added: “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,” he added.
For further advice and information visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni or the ScamwiseNI Facebook page @scamwiseni.