Woman scammed out of £15,500

Thursday 25 July 2019

A 71-year-old woman has been defrauded of half of her life savings after finding herself the victim of an online scam.

The woman was approached by someone on Facebook impersonating one of her friends.

They claimed they had won 'The Facebook Lottery' and that her name was on the winners list. All that 'her friend' needed was £15,500 to unlock a quarter of a million pounds in prize money. The woman, believing she was speaking to her friend, agreed to this.

A Guernsey Police spokesperson said: "Of course, there was no prize money on the way.

"We are asking everyone who has read this who has elderly relations or indeed knowns anyone who might fall victim to this scam to tell them abut what has happened here.

"Remember: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don't fall victim to a scam." 

PC Hannah Kershaw added: "This case highlights the importance of remaining vigilant online at all times. Scammers don't care who you are and don't give a single thought to the impact of their actions on those they are defrauding - in this instance a 71-year-old woman.

"Everyone should take this as an opportunity to speak to their loved ones about how to stay safe online, because anyone could be their next victim." 

For information about online security, Guernsey Police advise people visit www.staysafeonline.org.