Derbyshire Police have issued advice to protect residents against identity theft after an increase in courier fraud related scams across the county.

It has been reported that victims have been receiving parcels, containing high value goods - such as an iPhone, followed by a second uniformed courier arriving shortly after, stating that the parcel has been delivered in error and collecting it back.

The fraudsters on all occasions have taken out mobile phone contracts using the victim's details, without their knowledge or consent.

Police are advising that anyone who receives a package they cannot remember ordering should not hand it over if a courier requests you to.

People should check their credentials and call the company that they represent, to check if they are legitimate, and if they aren't who they say they are then call the police.

The next step would be to contact the retailer as soon as you can and arrange for the package to be sent back.

Anyone targeted by this scam is also advised to tell their bank as their details could be compromised and they may be a victim of identity theft.

How to protect yourself against identity theft

If you want to protect yourself against identity fraud, Action Fraud recommends that you:

• Shred anything with your name, address or financial details before throwing it away.

• Do not reveal any security information - such as your password, login details or account numbers if you get an unsolicited email or call.

• Call your bank on an official number if you get an unsolicited call.

• Check your statements regularly and report any suspicious activity.

• Put your bills and financial details in a safe place out of view.

• Contact your bank if paper statements don’t arrive (if you’re expecting them).

• Redirect your post via Royal Mail, for a least a year, if you move property.

• Use a credit report checking service, to alert you to any key changes on your credit file.

What to do if you have fallen victim to this scam

If you think you, or someone you know has been a victim of online fraud:

• Let your bank know what’s happened immediately.

• Report the offence to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via their website https://www.actionfraud.police.uk.

If you need to seek further advice, you can contact Derbyshire Police via one of the following methods:

• Facebook: send a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary

• Twitter: direct message the contact centre on @DerPolContact

• Website: complete the online contact form www.derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.

• Phone: call 101.

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