Vulnerable victims in Surrey lost £365,150 to investment fraud in May.

The six cases involved credible-sounding fraudsters offering opportunities to make impressive profits from shares along with diamonds, art and wine.

A couple in their 70s from Elmbridge were searching the internet for investments and a screen popped up asking for their details. Thinking it was legitimate, and their bank wanting to contact them about possible investment, they gave their details. They had transferred £70,000 before a further payment was blocked by their bank for being suspicious activity and the couple realised they had been victims of a crime.

PC Bernadette Lawrie, Financial Abuse Safeguarding Officer for Surrey Police said: “We are seeing victims lose devastating sums of money to fraudsters and are urging people to be wary when contacted by someone claiming to be from an investment firm about their money. This contact is frequently via telephone but can also start through social media and while searching for investments online.

“Take your time making decisions and remember that if something sounds too good to be true then it probably is.”

“If you are thinking of making an investment, always check people are who they say they are. To make safe investments, take a look at the Financial Conduct Authority’s ScamSmart warning list.”