ACTION Fraud officers are seeking to raise public awareness of a reshipping scam in which people are targeted to become “parcel mules”.

If hooked, the scam will result in them handling stolen goods and losing out financially.

In flagging up the scam, on behalf of Action Fraud, Hampshire Country Watch officers explain that victims are predominantly recruited through job advertisements and dating websites.

They are persuaded to have items delivered to their addresses and to pay for postage before sending the items elsewhere.

Victims are contacted through freelancer websites and invited to become a “freight forwarder” as an employment opportunity.

The work is advertised as processing packages and forwarding them to clients.

The items being delivered have been bought illegally, including the use of stolen and/or fraudulently obtained cards.

The items being delivered are often pieces of electrical equipment or high-value goods such as trainers, perfume and the latest phones.

According to the police, if you act as a “mule” you are not only handling stolen goods but also losing out financially.

You will not get paid the promised salary and you pay for the postage and delivery of the packages personally.

Additionally, you will have provided enough of your personal details to allow identity theft to occur.

If you have been affected by such a scam call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or you can visit www.action fraud.police.uk.