22 January 2011

Con man preying on the elderly

22 January 2011 | By johnboy

ACT Policing is investigating a case today (Saturday, January 22) in which a 90-year-old couple had a significant sum of money stolen from their savings account by an offender posing as their credit union representative.

After the Scullin pensioners had been shopping at the Belconnen Markets on Friday afternoon (January 21) between 12.30pm and 1pm, the male victim misplaced his wallet containing cash, personal identification and credit cards.

The couple were contacted earlier today by someone purporting to represent their credit union, and requested their account’s Personal Identification Number (PIN), claiming this as a means of confirming the victim’s identity.

Later it was found that a sum of money had been stolen from that account by persons unknown. The couple’s stolen credit cards have since been cancelled and investigations into the theft are ongoing.

One of the investigating officers, Belconnen Patrol Constable Kristy Anderson, said it was disheartening that a thief would take advantage of an elderly couple in this way.

“This incident also reminds us that identity theft is commonplace, and conmen will use whatever leverage they can to obtain profit or advantage by deception. In this case, the victims were of a trusting nature – and the swindler took advantage of that trust,” Const Anderson said.

Anyone who may have information about this crime and can assist the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers website on www.act.crimestoppers.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

[Courtesy of ACT Policing]