‘Bank Investigator’ fraud alert

January 21, 2015 · 0 Comments

Last year Shelburne Police reported on two fraud cases in Shelburne where clients of local banks receive phone calls from a male claiming to work for a bank and to be investigating fraud at the local branch. The victims were asked to withdraw a large sum of cash, meet the investigator in a parking lot or other location away from the branch, and that the money would be returned to their account after a few days. The investigator asks the client not to say anything to the teller why they are withdrawing money, and typically justifies the strange procedure by explaining that they are investigating an employee at the branch.
Last week Shelburne Police received another similar report, however in this case the victim did not carry through with the request and was not any money.
Shelburne Police is asking the community to talk to all their loved ones about this fraud, especially the elderly as they are often the most trusting. Police want everyone to keep the following points in mind
• Neither the bank nor any legitimate investigator for the bank will ever ask a client to withdraw cash or assist in an investigation.
• If you receive such a call, try to obtain the number on the call display and call 9-1-1 immediately.
• Never give any banking information over the phone including which branch you use, any account numbers, your address, what you drive, or any other details about yourself
• Notify the police and someone at your bank that you know and trust about any suspicious phone calls, e-mails or mail you receive in regards to your bank accounts, debit cards, credit cards, loans or mortgages.
• Call Shelburne Police at 519-925-3312 with tips, rumors, or information even if you are not sure if it is relevant. Or leave a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com