Drivers warned of scammer posing as traffic warden

Warning issued after a driver in Hemel Hempstead was stopped by a scammer claiming to be a traffic warden.

The incident occurred on the morning of Thursday 10 October, when the victim was parked on Hillfield Road, close to the hospital. A man in a high vis vest approached and got into her car, claiming he was a traffic warden and that she would be getting a fine unless she handed over her bank card. The man left the car and made off with the bank card. Later in the day the victim was contacted by their bank who informed them that a withdrawal of £4,000 had been stopped on the card.

Fraud Triage Manager Julian Griffiths, from the Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit, said: “This incident must have been distressing for the victim, who not only had their card taken but must have felt physically intimidated by the man climbing into the car.

“There doesn’t appear to have been any other similar incidents reported in the county to date, but I would advise drivers to be cautious and lock their vehicles if they are parked up. No official or company representative should ever ask you to hand over cash or bank cards at the roadside. If you are asked to do so, ask them to send a penalty notice through the post and do not provide them with any personal information. If they remain insistent, call Police on 101.”

“The man is described as in his 40s, black and of medium build, around 6ft tall and clean shaven. If anyone else was approached or saw someone matching this description in the area, please report so we can investigate.”  

You can report information about crime online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101 quoting crime ref: 41/85665/24.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.

In an emergency, or if you suspect a crime is in progress, always call 999.