CROOKS are scamming dale folk out of hundreds of pounds using fake delivery cards.
Bogus delivery staff have been posting the false notes through letterboxes with instructions to phone premium numbers so householders can collect their package.
The result is often a hefty three figure phone bill.
Sgt Simon Rogers, from Barnard Castle Police, revealed the shock tactic at last week’s Barnard Castle Town Council meeting.
He said: “This is the latest scam in the build up to Christmas. If you ring that number, by the time you get through you could have racked up a bill of a couple of hundred pounds.
“So, if you are not expecting a parcel do not ring the number. It’s something that scammers have thought up and people are getting a hammering for it.”
Sgt Rogers added that clues can usually be spotted from the cards when the number seems to be unusual.
If unsure, he advised people check the delivery company contact details and numbers online.
“HMRC” scams are also on police radars at the moment where people are asked to pay money up front following threats to remove property.
Sgt Rogers added: “They are asking people to make bank transfers or use iTunes credits which cannot be traced.”
Leaving the phone for five minutes after a suspected bogus call was recommended as sometimes crooks can keep the line open for ten seconds and pick up vital details.
Sgt Rogers also suggested telling two people about the call.
“If in doubt, phone the police,” he added.
Elderly folk have not been the only ones targeted by scammers in the dale.
Sgt Rogers said one of the town’s pubs had been approached by supposed Nottingham-based bailiffs saying they were coming to collect property.
He added: “It’s one of the more unusual ones as they usually ask for money in advance.
“People at this time of year will be trying everything.
“If in doubt, put the phone down.”
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