A fraudster posing as a care provider to steal money from an elderly resident has prompted warnings from Tendring District Council (TDC).

The scam involved a call from someone claiming to be from a care provider, who falsely said that the resident’s careline service was being transferred to them.

The victim, who is not a TDC Careline customer but uses a different provider, was persuaded to pay a monthly fee — only to have almost £150 taken in a single transaction.

When she complained, the scammers promised a refund, but instead withdrew further funds from her account, totalling more than £350. They later attempted to take even more money using a second credit card – but fortunately, the resident’s bank intervened and reported the activity as fraud.

TDC is warning other residents to be vigilant, especially with the changes to the Careline service which will see Tendring users and staff transferred to Colchester City Council’s expanded Helpline service later this year. The council says it will never ask for bank details over the phone or request payments in this manner.

Peter Kotz, the TDC cabinet member responsible for community safety, said: “This is a troubling case, and we are urging everyone – especially older residents and their families – to be alert. If you are suspicious about a call claiming to be about your care provider, hang up and contact your provider directly using a trusted number.

TDC advises residents to:

• Never give out personal or financial information over the phone to unsolicited callers
• Contact their bank immediately if they suspect fraud
• Report scams to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Anyone with concerns about their Careline service should contact TDC directly via the official website at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/tendring-careline.