Police Issue Caution Regarding Scams Targeting Older Individuals

Law enforcement officials are advising residents of the islands to exercise vigilance as they investigate multiple instances of fraud aimed at older individuals. The police force indicated that it is looking into a growing number of incidents where fraudsters operating within the island have persuaded elderly persons to hand over substantial amounts of cash. Findings from the police inquiry revealed that victims were deceived into thinking they were assisting individuals who asserted they were experiencing financial difficulties. Authorities have encouraged the public to contact their elderly family members to ascertain whether they might have transferred funds to individuals they considered reliable. According to officers, there have been instances where individuals, unaware they were being victimized, may have transferred “five-figure sums of money”. The community has been advised to remain vigilant and to resist any pressure to provide or lend money under any atypical conditions. Individuals who suspect that an acquaintance has been targeted are requested to get in touch with Guernsey Police’s Criminal Investigation Department by calling 01481 222 222. Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.