Scammers Using Rideshare Couriers To Steal Credit Cards: State Police

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — A series of access device fraud cases that ask bank customers to hand their credit card over to a ride-share courier as part of a fraud investigation, are under investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police.

In these crimes, victims receive calls from someone pretending to be from their bank's fraud department. Police said the scammer shares personal information about the victim to appear legitimate. The scammer claims fraudulent charges have been made to the victim's bank account and that the victim's credit card has been compromised.

Police said the scammer then instructs the victim to hand their credit card over to a ride-share courier, usually an Uber driver, who arrives at their residence supposedly to take the card to the bank for further investigation. The victim’s credit card is then used to make numerous fraudulent purchases, mainly at Apple Stores and businesses that sell Apple gift cards, including CVS and Walgreens pharmacies, as well as Target and Walmart.

Impacted financial institutions include Citadel Credit Union and TruMark Financial Credit Union in Pennsylvania. Investigators are also aware of TD Bank customers in New Jersey who have been victims of the scam

.Law enforcement reminds the public that no financial institution will ever ask someone to give their credit card to anyone as part of a fraud investigation. People should always independently confirm any request for information from their financial institution.

Police said if any suspicions or concerns arise, people should immediately call their financial institution’s fraud department and/or law enforcement.