Action Fraud have received an increase in
reports and intelligence where elderly victims are being targeted by
individuals purporting to be police officers or traffic wardens. The
victims are being approached whilst parked in a car park and are told by
the suspect that they have parked illegally or broken a speed limit and
a photo has been taken of their car for ‘evidence’.
Victims are advised that they will face a substantial penalty fine
unless they pay a smaller upfront fee immediately. Victims, who opt for
paying the smaller penalty, will be directed to a parking meter and
asked to enter their card and PIN. These parking meters have been
tampered with by the suspect in order to retain the card.
Once the victim inserts their card and are asked for their PIN, the
victims are shoulder surfed for their PIN by the suspect. Once victims
input their PIN, the card is retained by the machine and victims are
told by the suspect to seek help from the company who operates the
parking meter or their bank.
What you need to do
- If you are suspicious about the authenticity of the fine, do not pay it until you have verified it with your local council.
- Always shield your PIN from view when using an ATM machine, and never share your PIN with anyone.
- If your bank card is retained by an ATM machine, contact your bank immediately to inform them.