Sussex Residents Lose More Than £500,000 To Courier Fraud Scams

Victims of courier fraud in Sussex lost more than £500,000 during 2025, according to new figures.

The losses form part of a national total of £21 million, marking an 8% increase in this type of scam.

Courier fraud involves criminals posing as trusted figures such as police officers or bank staff to convince victims to hand over money, bank cards or valuable items.

Sussex Police says elderly and vulnerable people are often targeted, with fraudsters using personal information and pressure tactics to make scams appear genuine.

Police Constable Bernadette Lawrie said criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated and may remain in contact with victims for days or even weeks.

Officers are reminding people that neither banks nor police will ever ask someone to transfer money, purchase expensive items to assist an investigation or send a courier to collect cash or bank cards.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam should contact their bank immediately and report the incident to Action Fraud or Sussex Police if they are vulnerable.