A Lawnton resident has fallen victim to a sophisticated phone and courier scam that has recently targeted elderly individuals across Moreton Bay, prompting local police to issue an urgent warning to the community.
On June 18, an 81-year-old woman from Lawnton became the latest victim of this scam, losing $11,000 to fraudsters. This incident is part of a larger scheme that has cost Moreton Bay seniors a total of $30,900 over the past two months.
The Petrie Criminal Investigation Branch, which is investigating the cases, reports that the scam involves phone calls from individuals claiming to represent banks or government anti-fraud departments. Victims are told their accounts have been compromised and are asked to assist in an investigation of alleged employee fraud.
In the Lawnton case, as with others, the victim was convinced to withdraw a significant amount of cash from her bank account. She was then instructed to hand the money over to a courier who arrived at her home, under the pretence that the funds would be used to trace serial numbers or collect fingerprints to identify supposedly fraudulent bank employees.
Two other similar incidents occurred in neighbouring suburbs:
- On May 8, a 73-year-old Kallangur woman lost $9,500 to the scam.
- On June 13, an 84-year-old Bray Park resident was defrauded of $10,400.
Local law enforcement is actively working to educate banks in Lawnton and surrounding areas about these scams. They are urging residents, particularly seniors, to be cautious when receiving unsolicited phone calls or requests for financial information.
Police emphasise that while this exact scenario may not be repeated, scams are constantly evolving. Lawnton residents are advised to verify any suspicious calls by contacting their bank directly using official contact information and to report potential scam attempts to the police immediately.
Lawnton residents seeking more information or wishing to report suspicious activity are encouraged to contact the Petrie Criminal Investigation Branch or their local police station.
Published 8-July-2024
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