Action Fraud have reported that a person has been contacted now twice in the last few days through Gumtree. The person was selling an item on Gumtree and had a ‘buyer’ who claimed they were interested in buying but could only use Paypal as they have problems with their bank as they are wheelchair bound and will send a courier to pick the item up from you.

Once they have your Paypal details they claim they have sent you £300 for a courier who needs paid on collection. You then receive a fake Paypal email saying they have the money for the item but that it can’t be released until you pay the £300 to the courier.. They then give an account number and sort code to transfer the money to the ‘courier’. If you don’t pay the £300 they then threaten you with Paypal and the Police as they claim you have received it.

So be warned, don’t fall for it!

Remember if you have been affected by fraud, report it to the Police by calling 101, or Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040