Elderly man and woman in Western Isles scammed out of £110,000 by cyber criminals

An elderly man and woman have been scammed out of around £110,000 by cyber criminals in the Western Isles.

Police Scotland said an 81-year-old man had been bombarded with cold calls before being scammed out of around £85,000.

The suspects set up online banking and re-routed his bank statements and card.

Meanwhile, a 75-year-old woman also lost around £25,000 when she attempted to purchase cryptocurrency and was instructed to follow a link.

The suspects took over her computer and applied for several high-value loans in her name.

Police said enquiries are ongoing into both incidents and urged members of the public to be vigilant.

Constable Anna Innes said: “These scams are not always easy to spot, and anyone can be fooled. These criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations, and the police.

“Often they have details about a person they should not have, hence convincing people they are legitimate.

“If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from your bank or financial institution, and you are in any doubt at all, hang up and contact the bank using the phone number on the back of your card or official paperwork.

“If the caller is genuine, they will understand your hesitation, don’t feel pressured to handing over details or withdrawing money.

“Do not trust any unexpected correspondence and never pass your personal or financial details to anyone, unless you are certain who they are and why they require that information.

“If you feel the need to reply to correspondence to check the authenticity of a contact, only use the company’s verified official website and the communication methods detailed upon it.”

Any victims of such crimes, or anyone with any concerns, is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101.