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If you receive a bogus call from someone claiming to be a police officer, here’s some advice to protect yourself:
Don’t Share Personal Information: Legitimate police officers will never ask for personal details such as bank information, passwords, or social security numbers over the phone.
Request Verification: Ask the caller for their name, badge number, and the police station they are calling from. You can then verify these details by calling the non-emergency police number 101.
Hang Up and Call 101: If the caller claims to be from the police, but you’re suspicious, hang up and call the 101 number to verify the situation. Always use a number you find on an official website, not one the caller provides.
Beware of Urgency or Threats: Scammers may pressure you into acting quickly or make threats, like claiming you've been involved in illegal activity. Police officers will not demand immediate payment or action over the phone.
Report the Incident: If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, report it to Action Fraud (the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre) on 0300 123 2040 or via their website. You can also inform the police via 101.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or too urgent, it’s always better to be cautious. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to confuse or intimidate people.
Always verify any unexpected calls you receive and stay vigilant to avoid falling victim to scams.
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