A MAN using the name "Raj Patel" has been targeting Asian families as part of a bank scam to gain access to their finances.

A total of 13 incidents have been reported across eight north and east London boroughs, including Haringey, since August.

One of those affected was a 52-year-old woman living in Digby Crescent, off Green Lanes, who was approached on September 4.

The scam starts with a hoax phone call made by a man with a Bengali accent claiming to be from the fraud department and insisting he needs their bank cards for analysis.

Using a bonafide courier service, the fraudster has the cards delivered to various addresses in the capital and then resorts to threats of violence to get victims to hand over their PIN numbers.

On one occasion the suspect told a woman he would rape her if she didn't cooperate and has also threatened a male victim stating he would be shot for failure to comply.

In some cases the fraudster, described as aged between 20 and 30, was successful in going on to steal money from the victims' bank accounts.

Detective Constable Deveci, of Chingford police, who is leading the investigation, has appealed for those with any information to get in touch.

DC Deveci said: "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.

"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."

Warning signs to look out for include an 0845 contact number and any requests to hand over a bank card or PIN number as banks would never ask for these details.

A Haringey police spokeswoman added: "This sort of crime has no geographical boundaries and we are keen to take this opportunity to warn Haringey residents of the nature of these offences so they can take preventative measures.

"Never, ever give your pin number to anyone. Never give your bank card to anyone coming to your door - banks will always ask you to destroy the card if there has been any fraudulent activity, and if you receive a call from someone claiming to be from your bank, get the bank's number from the phone book or the back of your bank card, phone your bank and check the caller was genuine."

Anyone with information or who has been a victim is asked to contact DC Deveci on 020 8345 3166. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.