The Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) is supporting renewed warnings from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) as criminals stoop to new lows, targeting grieving families with heartless scams.
Police have seen a rise in cases where scammers are targeting family members of the deceased, claiming to be from the funeral service providers. As with any scam, their aim remains unchanged – to trick individuals into handing over personal and financial details, paving the way for more sophisticated scams, where the losses can be substantial and even life-changing.
Detective Inspector Harris from PSNI’s Organised Crime Department said: “The lengths scammers go to are not only extensive but disgraceful. Our advice is don’t respond to unknown calls and texts; don’t give away personal information to people you don’t know; don’t transfer money to unknown people. Where possible, do any transactions in-person with the funeral service provider, so as you know where your money is going.
“We understand this isn’t always an option, but where it is, proceed accordingly and if something doesn’t seem quite right, don’t continue – report it to your local officers.
“Scammers think they’re smart but following these rules will show them you’re smarter. Stop. Check. Report.”
As part of its ongoing work, the PCSP is committed to raising public awareness of scams and fraud prevention. Through community engagement, education, and partnership with PSNI and ScamwiseNI, the PCSP helps ensure residents are equipped to recognise and resist scams – especially those exploiting vulnerable moments like bereavement.
Alderman Mark Baxter, Chair of the PCSP said, “No one should have to worry about being scammed while grieving the loss of a loved one. That’s why we are reminding everyone of the importance of staying alert and informed. Educating our community on how scams work is vital to protecting people’s money and their peace of mind.”
The public is urged to remember the simple yet powerful message: Stop. Check. Report.
- STOP – Don’t be rushed. Pause before sharing information or sending money.
- CHECK – Use trusted sources to verify who you’re dealing with. Contact service providers directly.
- REPORT – Report any suspicious activity to police online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, by calling 101, or via www.actionfraud.police.uk.
More information and guidance is available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni or follow the ScamwiseNI Facebook page @scamwiseni.
