Warning to elderly for credit card scam

In some cases the offenders went to properties claiming to be looking for someone. Photo / iStock

Waikato police are warning of a scam where the elderly are being tricked into giving their Eftpos and credit card pin numbers to thieves by posing as police investigating the crime.

In the past month, offenders have stolen wallets containing cash and cards from six victims across Hamilton, Te Awamutu and Morrinsville.

Western Waikato Area Investigations Manager, Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Whitehead said the most recent incident was in Te Awamutu at the weekend.

"A wallet containing a money card was stolen from a Teasdale St address and the victim was then [called by] someone claiming to be from police, asking them to confirm their pin.

"The offenders appear to be targeting elderly victims; we've had three incidents in Te Awamutu in the last month, one in Morrinsville and two in Hamilton."

In some cases the offenders went to properties claiming to be looking for someone, before taking a handbag or wallet when the victim is distracted.

"On other occasions they dart into a home and take the items while the owner is outside gardening.

"They then ring up the victim claiming to be the investigating officer and ask them for their card's pin," Mr Whitehead said.

He said police would never ask a person for their PIN.

"The message here is trust your instincts. If it doesn't feel right it probably isn't and you should call Police."