Police are urging businesses in the Highlands to be on their guard following recent reports of “Ringing the Changes” fraud.
Two instances of the scam were reported to police at premises in Nethy Bridge and Boat of Garten on Thursday where two suspects were successful in gaining a three-figure sum from one of the businesses.
The fraud involves a person asking a member of staff to exchange a large sum of money in notes of smaller denominations or a different currency.
While doing this they deliberately confuse the staff member assisting with the transaction in order to obtain more money than they started with.
Two men suspected of carrying out the scam were seen at a business in Boat of Garten at around 2.45pm having earlier attended in Nethy Bridge.
Inquiries are ongoing and police are urging businesses to be on their guard against any further suspicious behaviour.
Aviemore-based Sergeant David Cameron said: “All business owners and their staff should be alert and aware to this type of scam. In particular you should watch out for anyone asking for a large sum of money to be exchanged.
“These unscrupulous criminals are employing sleight of hand to leave with more money than they started with and it is possible they will target a busy period which can provide an ideal opportunity to confuse or distract you.
“It is better to be safe than sorry and if you are in any doubt consider asking another colleague for assistance or politely decline the request and notify the Police.
“This type of criminal tends to travel widely employing this scam and I would urge people across the Highlands to be aware of the risk.
“Anyone who has information that could assist with this inquiry is encouraged to contact Police on 101, quoting reference NM5093/17 or any anonymous information can be passed to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”
