A good deal of card crime in London by fraudsters aiming to get cards and PINs and threatening victims with violence has brought to light by police officials.

13 instances of crime where people were tricked into handing over their cards have been reported in north and east London.

These credit card fraudsters have been phoned by men claiming to be from the fraud department of a bank, usually Barclays.

A police official stated that these men claim that some fraudulent activity has taken place on the credit card holders account stating that thousands of pounds has been removed from accounts or TVs had been bought.

The scam then takes a new turn as a courier, from a legitimate firm, is sent to pick up the card claiming it is needed for analysis and the victim is called to give the PIN.

The people who refused to reveal their PIN were threatened. On one occasion a woman was told she would be raped while a man was told he would be shot if they did not reveal their PIN numbers.

Detective Constable Deveci, from Chingford police, said: "We would appeal for anyone with information about these crimes to please come forward.

“Although all the victims are Asian, we think the suspects are simply cold-calling people and trying their luck. They can sound convincing and have managed to persuade people to hand over their bankcards and PIN numbers. Please be aware this scam is being carried out across north and east London and don't be taken in.

He further added: "We are also appealing for courier companies to be on their guard and report any incidents to us as the services of genuine companies are being abused by these fraudsters."