Hertfordshire Constabulary is warning residents to be wary of a scam involving fake banking apps.
Scammers have targeted individuals who were selling valuable phones, cameras and other items via online selling platforms. The vendors were contacted about their items and when the scammer arrived, paid for items using a convincing banking app. The app mimicked apps from a number of banks and appeared to show the funds being transferred to the victim’s bank account.
Four offences were reported during July in the Hemel Hempstead, Letchworth, Stevenage and Watford.
Detective Inspector Pete Hankins, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit, said: “We are still seeing people being caught out by this scam as the app is very convincing. The scammer asks the victim to enter their bank details into the app and then it appears to show the amount being debited from the buyer’s account. I would urge anyone selling an item to be sceptical about accepting payment via a banking app. Payment by cash, credit card or using Paypal for Business is a more secure way of making a sale.
“Please help us to raise awareness by talking about this with your friends and family, especially if they are vulnerable or elderly.”
If you believe that you are a victim of this scam please report online to www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
Visit www.herts.police.uk/protectyourmoney for advice on avoiding scams.
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