Fifers warned after grandma scammed out of four-figure sum

The scammers pretended to be from Amazon and encouraged the woman to download an app – within minutes they had access to her laptop and bank details.

The thieves stole a four-figure sum.

Now, her granddaughter, Lisa Hutton, is encouraging Fifers to be cautious and watch out for scammers.

"My gran was recently targeted by scammers claiming to be from Amazon,” she explained.

"It was a recorded message and told her to press one to speak to an operator. She did and was told she needed to send them a copy of her driver licence and to download an app called 'team viewer' to verify it was her. She did both and within minutes they had gained access to her whole laptop, bank details and emptied her account of a four-figure sum of money.

"The bank said they can't help because she 'gave them access' – apart from being maybe a little naive she hasn't done anything wrong. She was told they needed it to renew her subscription to an app she uses many time for shopping.”

Lisa said her 72-year-old grandma might now have to choose between heating and food over winter.

"She is the most genuine lady you could meet,” added Lisa. “Throughout her life she has cared for many. She has cared for children who were in care; helped people who have addictions; went above and beyond helping the elderly out of her own pocket many times through the goodness of her heart. She is my best friend and now an old lady who needs looking after herself.

"I want everyone out there to know about this and to make sure all their elderly neighbours and grandparents know about this, so as not to fall victim to the horrible people out there.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said police enquiries are ongoing. They added: “We would urge people to be very wary of anyone who contacts them over the phone or by email and asks them for personal information, or to pass on personal details or bank details. If you are in doubt, speak to a family member or contact police. More information can be found on – www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/keep-secure-online.”