Scam warning
Cash or Gold Pickup
A scammer, often posing as a bank, the government or a grandchild's lawyer, convinces you to withdraw cash or buy gold bars. Then a “courier” or “agent” comes to your door to collect it, or you're told to mail it.
Also called: Courier scam, Gold bar scam, Cash in the mail scam
The one thing to remember
No real bank, government or lawyer will ever send someone to your house to collect cash or gold. Don't open the door.
How it happens
- A caller says your money is in danger, or a loved one needs bail.
- They tell you to withdraw cash or buy gold, and not to tell the bank teller why.
- They give you a code word and say a courier will pick it up.
- Sometimes they tell you to hide cash inside a magazine or box and mail it.
Warning signs
- Being told to withdraw a large amount of cash or buy gold.
- Someone coming to your house to pick up money.
- Being told to mail cash.
- Being told to lie to your bank.
What to do
- Stop. Don't hand over anything.
- If a courier is coming, call 911.
- Call your bank using the number on your card, and tell a family member.
Last checked: October 31, 2026