Fraud Alert: Could That Police Call Be a Scam?
There has been a significant increase in reports of fraudsters contacting residents by telephone and falsely claiming to be police officers. This type of scam is occurring across the UK and is not limited to any one area.
How the Scam Works
Fraudsters often claim to be detectives or police officers investigating a crime. One common tactic is to say they are calling from Holborn Police Station in London or Brixham, although they may mispronounce the name.
Scammers use their supposed authority to create fear and urgency. They may claim:
A family member or friend has been arrested.
Your personal details have been linked to a criminal investigation.
Counterfeit documents, such as passports, have been found in your name.
Your bank account or card has been used fraudulently.
A member of bank staff is under investigation and your assistance is needed.
The caller will then attempt to obtain personal, banking, or security information.
Warning Signs
Be suspicious if a caller:
Asks for bank account details, PINs, passwords, or security codes.
Requests that you withdraw cash from your bank account.
Arranges for a courier or another person to collect cash, bank cards, or valuables.
Pressures you to act quickly or keep the call confidential.
Remember
Police officers will never cold call and ask for your bank details, PIN, passwords, or request that you transfer or withdraw money.
A genuine police officer attending your address will identify themselves and show their warrant card. They will be happy for you to check their identify and will wait for you to do this.
Don't Be Manipulated by the "Call 999 to Check"
Some fraudsters may tell you to hang up and dial 999 to verify their identity. However, they can sometimes keep the line open, meaning you may still be connected to the scammers.
If you receive a suspicious call:
Hang up immediately.
Wait at least 10 minutes before using the same landline or use a different phone.
Call a trusted friend or family member to ensure the line has cleared.
Contact your bank using a number you know is genuine.
If You Have Shared Bank Details
If you have provided banking information, handed your card to a courier, or believe you may have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately.
You can also contact your bank's fraud team by calling 159, the secure banking hotline, or by using the number on the back of your bank card.
Please Share
Please share this warning with family members, friends, neighbours, and anyone who may be vulnerable to this type of scam. Raising awareness is one of the best ways to prevent fraud.
If you have been manipulated by Fraud or Cyber Offences,
Report it to Report Fraud (formerly known as ACTION FRAUD) on 0300 123 2040 or via reportfraud.police.uk
Scam Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take early action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks. You can also report Scam mobile calls by texting 7726 with the word “Call” followed by the fraudulent caller’s phone number.
Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk
If you think your bank account or personal banking details have been used fraudulently, then use the short phone number - 159 - to contact the Fraud Prevention Department of most major UK banks.
