A WARNING has been launched after an elderly lady was conned out of £3,500 by men who claimed to be builders.
The men said they would carry out work at the old lady’s house, drove her to the bank, and made off with the money she withdrew.
West Midlands Police has recently issued warnings about ‘courier fraud’ which usually involves con artists who trick pensioners or vulnerable people into giving them money.
A Solihull council spokesperson said: “WARNING: Solihull Trading Standards has recently dealt with an incident involving an elderly lady who agreed to have work carried out to her property after seeing men leafleting in her area.
“The lady was driven to the bank by the men and withdrew £3,500 in cash to give to them.
“Once they had the money they left the property and have not returned.
“Solihull Trading Standards always advise residents NOT to agree to any work or pay ANY money without getting several quotes from other established businesses first.
“For home property works Solihull Trading Standards work in partnership with No Rogue Traders Here who run a list of vetted professionals.
“They can be contacted on 0800 233 5000.”
Detective inspector Kerrie Martin from West Midlands Police’s Economic Crime Unit said victims in the region have collectively lost at least £110,000 to courier fraud already this year.
