A woman defrauded a pensioner from Hove with a con involving a new bank card.
Sussex Police said: “An elderly woman had £200 stolen from her account after she fell victim to bank card fraud.
“The victim, in her eighties from Hove, received a call on Thursday 27 July from a woman pretending to work for HSBC bank.
“The caller asked if the victim had received her new bank card and stated she would continue to call over the next few days to check she had.
“On the third phone call the victim was told the bank would be delivering the new card by hand that afternoon, Saturday 29 July.
“The caller asked if a new PIN was required and if the victim could confirm the current security number.
“A woman described to be around 22 years old, white, 5ft 5in, with long dark hair and of thin build, turned up at the house, delivered the new bank card and took the old card.
“The elderly victim was unaware of the fraudulent behaviour until Monday 31 July when she attempted to use the card and it was declined.
“A cash withdrawal of £200 was made from the victim’s card at Tesco in Bell Lane, Uckfield, on Saturday 29 July.”
Detective Constable Carmelle Kemp said: “The victim was duped into believing that she needed a new bank card after receiving a number of intimidating phone calls.
“Banks will never ask for personal details such as the PIN over the phone and new bank cards should normally be sent out automatically.
“The people involved in carrying out these fraudulent transactions are targeting the vulnerable.
“Be aware of any fraudulent phone calls and if you believe the caller is not genuine, simply hang up the phone.
“You can ask for proof of identification for any caller who knocks on your door.
“If you know anything about this incident or you have fallen victim to fraud, please report it online or by calling us on 101, quoting Operation Signature.”
