Courier Fraud
A scam where a fraudster posing as a bank or police officer sends a courier to collect cash, bank cards, or jewellery from a victim under a false pretence.
Also known as: bank courier scam, police courier fraud, card pickup fraud
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Courier fraud begins with a vishing call: the victim is told their bank card has been cloned, their account compromised, or that they need to assist a police operation. They are instructed to withdraw cash, hand over their bank card (including the PIN), or gather valuables — and then wait for a 'courier' or 'police officer' to collect these items for 'safekeeping' or 'evidence'.
The courier is in fact a member of the criminal gang or an unwitting money mule. Once cash and cards are collected, the bank cards are immediately used to withdraw further funds. The real bank or police force is unaware until the victim eventually calls to check.
The scam disproportionately affects older adults. Key protection: your bank will never send someone to collect your card, cash, or PIN. No police operation requires you to hand valuables to a stranger at your door. End any call making such a request and dial your bank's official number to verify.
Examples
- An elderly victim is told her card is being used fraudulently; a 'bank investigator' collects her cards and PIN codes to 'cancel them'.
- A caller claiming to be from the Metropolitan Police asks a victim to hand a cash 'evidence bundle' to a courier who arrives within the hour.