Fake police officers and traffic wardens are attempting to hit motorists in Gedling borough with bogus on-the-spot ‘fines’ for alleged speeding offences and parking violations, Nottinghamshire Police have warned.
The force issued an alert to people in the borough this afternoon. In the alert a police spokesman said: “Action Fraud have received an increase in reports & intelligence where elderly victims are being targeted by individuals purporting to be police officers or traffic wardens.
“The victims are being approached whilst parked in a car park and are told by the suspect that they have parked illegally or broken a speed limit and a photo has been taken of their car for ‘evidence’.”
“Victims are advised that they will face a substantial penalty fine unless they pay a smaller upfront fee immediately.
“Victims, who opt for paying the smaller penalty, will be directed to a parking meter and asked to enter their card and PIN. These parking meters have been tampered with by the suspect in order to retain the card.
“Once the victim inserts their card and are asked for their PIN, the victim is shoulder surfed for their PIN by the suspect. Once the victims input their PIN, the card is retained by the machine.
Please report to Action Fraud if you or a loved one has fallen for this scam.
People are being warned to take the following action if targeted by these fraudsters:
- If you are suspicious about the authenticity of the fine, do not pay it until you have verified it with your local council.
- Always make sure you shield your PIN from view when using an ATM machine, and never share your PIN with anyone.
- If your bank card is retained by an ATM machine, contact your bank immediately to inform them.
