Police have issued a warning regarding mobile phone courier fraud following an incident in Portlethen.

The resident received a parcel from a well-known courier company but was unaware of having ordered anything. A few moments later she had a knock on the door from a fraudster dressed in hi-vis and with false identification asking for the phone back claiming it had been delivered by mistake.

This is a scam – do not hand over the parcel.The resident contacted her mobile phone provider who confirmed three brand new iphones had been ordered from her account.

Police Scotland’s North East Division crime reduction officer PC Mike Urquhart warned: “Delivery scams are one of the sophisticated methods fraudsters are using to leave victims out of pocket.

“The scam involves criminals ordering and then attempting to intercept – or trick you into handing over – high-value packages. It normally happens when criminals manage to obtain your personal details to place the order. It can be one consequence of identity theft.”

The police advice is:
– If a courier unexpectedly comes to collect an item at your home, do not hand it over.
– Check their credentials and call the company they claim to be representing. If you have any fears, contact the police.