Bogus caller warning as fake bank workers tried to empty elderly Sunderland man's account

The incident took place in Thorney Close.

Fraudsters visited the vulnerable victim at his home in Thorney Close between on Saturday night, claiming to be from Lloyds Bank.

The the caller convinced the man that there was an issue with his account and made arrangements for a 'representative' from the bank to visit the man at home.

Later in the evening the 'representative' called at the victim's home and took his debit card away.

The 'representative' then returned around ten minutes later and took another card from the victim.

The suspects logged on to the account and attempted to make two transactions. Both payments were stopped.

The 'representative' who called at the man's home is described as white, 25 - 30 years old and around 6ft tall. He was dressed in a dark-coloured suit with a dark shirt and tie. It is believed he used a silver-coloured vehicle, possibly a four door saloon type car.

Inspector Dave Gordon said: "Bogus callers can be very skilled in what they do, they can be very convincing and very clever in their tactics, giving victims no reason not to believe them and unfortunately it can be very easy for people to fall victim.

"We want to warn people that not everyone is who they claim to be and that there are people out there looking to take advantage, they may seem genuine people but they are not, they are mistrustful and criminals.

"Our advice is never disclose any personal information and never hand over cash or bank cards. Even if these people seem genuine it is more than likely they are not."

Police also want anyone with elderly relatives, friends or neighbours are aware of this advice.

Insp Gordon added; "Unfortunately these people prey on vulnerable or elderly people and take advantage of their good nature, we'd ask anyone who has an elderly relative, friend or neighbour to make sure they are aware these people are generally bogus and to be vigilant. If in any doubt they should contact police straight away."

Enquiries are on-going into the incident, that happened in on Saturday, March 18, in Thorney Close. Officers are keen to speak to anyone who was in Thorney Close or Grindon between 10 and 11pm to contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 403 190317 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.