Police warn public over 'courier' fraud

MACCLESFIELD residents were among victims of 'courier' fraud with Cheshire Police saying there has been 17 instances in the county last financial year - total ling losses of £1.78m.

- ALEX SCAPENS

Officers say although the number of incidents - for the period April 2024 to March 2025 - is relatively low, the cumulative value is among the highest in the country.

The force is now supporting a national campaign to raise awareness of the issue and are urging residents to remain vigilant.

Courier fraud is where a person is contacted by someone pretending to be an official such as a police officer or bank worker, either over the phone or in person.

The victims are then told to withdraw or hand over cash or valuable items, to purchase Euros or gift cards or even provide bank cards or pin numbers.

These are then collected from their home address or at another meeting place by a 'courier'.