Gloria Hunniford Warns Public Following Devastating £120,000 Scam Loss

Gloria Hunniford, the 85-year-old presenter of BBC’s “Rip Off Britain,” has recently issued a serious warning about the threat of scams after suffering a significant financial loss. The host lost £120,000 due to a sophisticated impersonation scam that took place several years ago.
Details of the Scam
The incident involved an impostor who entered a Santander bank branch alongside two accomplices, all posing as Hunniford’s family members. The fraudster produced a fake driving license to facilitate the unlawful withdrawal from Hunniford’s bank account.
- Initial withdrawal: £102,000
- Subsequent withdrawal: £18,000
- Total loss: £120,000
This breach of security occurred shortly after the death of her husband, Stephen Way, who had been made an authorized signatory on her account before his passing.
Bank’s Response
Santander, upon discovering the fraudulent activity, took immediate action. They reported the scam to the relevant authorities and made Hunniford aware of the situation. The bank fully reimbursed her for the losses and has since enhanced its fraud prevention measures.
Ongoing Awareness and Future Concerns
In light of her experience, Hunniford emphasizes the importance of public awareness about scams. She warns that the rise of artificial intelligence could lead to more sophisticated scam tactics. Her work on “Rip Off Britain” aims to educate viewers about various consumer frauds.
In an interview with The Mirror, Hunniford mentioned that maintaining a structured routine helps her cope with personal challenges, especially after losing her daughter and husband. This personal loss motivates her dedication to raising awareness about the dangers of fraud.
Key Takeaways
- Gloria Hunniford lost £120,000 due to a bank impersonation scam.
- The scam involved impersonators using fraudulent identification.
- Santander has improved its fraud prevention strategies.
- Hunniford advocates for heightened public vigilance against scams, especially with advancing technology.
This incident underscores the persistent threat of scams and the need for both banks and individuals to protect their financial information. Hunniford’s experience serves as a reminder to remain cautious and educated about potential frauds.