Police Scotland are urging people to be alert after three reports of bank fraud in East Renfrewshire since December 2025.
In each case, victims were contacted by phone at home by someone pretending to be either a police officer or a bank staff member, concerned about suspicious activity on their account and asking them to assist with an investigation due to their account being at risk.
They convince the caller they are genuine, then ask the victim to attend their bank or a foreign exchange bureau, withdraw cash and hand it over to a fraudster, purporting to be a courier, for safekeeping.
Officers are continuing enquiries into these reports. Our investigation includes forensic examination and door-to door work. CCTV from in and around the area is also being reviewed to gather more information.
Chief Inspector Paul Daley, Area Commander for East Renfrewshire said: “Banks or police officers will never ask customers to withdraw cash or ask for any money. No legitimate organisation will send a courier to collect cash.
“These offenders deliberately target older and vulnerable people. They use fear, urgency and authority to manipulate victims into handing over large sums of money. If someone phones and asks you to withdraw money or give money to a courier, hang up immediately. It is a scam.
“I would also ask everyone to ensure any elderly or vulnerable relatives or friends are made aware of the circumstances of this scam. It could prevent them falling victim to such fraud.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where you can give information anonymously.
Helpful advice at:
https://www.scotland.police.uk/what-s-happening/campaigns/2020/take-five/personal/courier-fraud
