Dorset Police are warning about a new Valentine’s Day scam which they’ve described as ‘clever’ and ‘deceptive’.
Fraudsters have been reported knocking on doors and presenting a box of chocolates, claiming that they require a small payment to cover a ‘missing cost’ and requesting bank details.
Police say the sight of someone holding a box of chocolates – especially around Valentine’s Day – can create a sense of goodwill and trust but the true intent is to gather personal bank information for fraudulent purposes.
The police advice is:
- Verify before opening: Always check the identity of anyone knocking at your door
- Do not share personal details: Never provide your bank details to anyone in this manner
- Report immediately: If you have already shared your bank details, contact your bank as soon as possible on 159
- Notify Action Fraud: Report any such incidents to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting its website at www.actionfraud.police.uk