Warning over bogus postal worker – Bank cards stolen from elderly residents

Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incidents to get in touch – and for those with elderly or vulnerable neighbours, friends and relatives to pass on our warning to stop others falling victim to the scam.

So far police have had reports of two incidents at houses in Beverley and Willerby, where a man dressed as a postal worker said he had a parcel for the occupant but there was an outstanding postage charge that had to be paid before he could hand it over.

The suspect claimed he could not take the outstanding £0.55 in cash and it would have to be paid by debit card.

He then claimed the transaction had not gone through and moved away to get a better signal on the card machine – but instead left, taking the card with him.

In both cases, the card was later used to withdraw hundreds of pounds at nearby cash machines.

The latest incident happened in Wheatcroft, Wilerby, at around 9.20am on Thursday, August 9, when a 71-year-old man was targeted.

The suspect was white, around 6ft tall, heavy build, with short brown hair and brown glasses. He also had a beard, a double chin and wore a red T-shirt with a Post Office logo on the front.

If you are approached:

• Always ask for identification when you’re approached by someone on your doorstep. If you’re not sure, call the firm they claim to be from. If they’re genuine, they won’t mind.
• Don’t assume that because they’re in uniform they are who they claim to be.
• Don’t hand over any cash or your card or personal details.
• Never allow someone into your home before you’re confident they are who they say they are.

Police also issued an appeal after a 76-year-old woman in Lairgate, Beverley, had her card stolen in similar circumstances on Wednesday, July 25. 

If you can help, please call 101 quoting incident numbers 16/78364/18 (Beverley) and 16/84320/18 (Willerby).