Officers in Aberdeen are continuing their enquiries and warning the public to be on their guard following a recent banking fraud where a four-figure sum was stolen.
On Friday, 31 January, 2025, an 84-year-old woman in the Mastrick area of Aberdeen received a call from a scammer, claiming they were from a local housing association. They told her she had overpaid her rent and that a housing officer would visit her at home shortly.
A man arrived at her address and offered to facilitate the refund. He asked for her card and PIN.
Afterwards the victim became suspicious and contacted a family member, however the four-figure sum had already been withdrawn.
The suspect is described as white, in his early 30s, around 5ft 6ins and of stocky build. He had short brown hair and was wearing a black jacket and dark-coloured trousers.
Crime Reduction Officer PC Irvine said: “These fraudsters are heartless and have no conscience. They prey on the most vulnerable people in our communities and steal their savings.
“I would urge everyone with an elderly relative or neighbour to make them aware of this type of fraud as soon as possible.
“These scammers use sophisticated tactics and go to great lengths to appear legitimate. They may have personal details including your address. Any true caller will never ask for your bank card or PIN or ask you to disclose personal financial information.
“If you receive a call of this nature, do not engage with the caller and hang up – it’s a scam. Do not allow unexpected visitors into your home. If you are unsure, take a few moments to think. If you have any doubts, end the call and ask a friend, relative or the Police for advice.
“Any victims of these crimes or anyone with information or concerns regarding calls they have received should contact 101. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”
This messaging system is not for reporting crime as responses are not monitored 24/7. If you have time-critical information regarding the content of the above message, or if you wish to report any other non-urgent matter, please call 101. In an emergency, call 999.
Police Scotland’s North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City. The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function. Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community. These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues. They are assisted by the division’s Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.
