Fraud Alert

Fraud Alert

🚨 Fraud Alert: Bogus Police Caller Scam 🚨

We want to make the public aware of a serious scam currently circulating in our area and across the UK. Fraudsters are impersonating police officers and contacting members of the public by phone, claiming to be involved in a criminal investigation. They may ask you to:

Withdraw money from your bank account

Transfer funds to a “safe” account

Purchase high-value items or gift cards

Hand over cash to a courier or “undercover officer”

These scammers often sound convincing and may provide fake badge numbers, incident references, or even spoof caller IDs to appear legitimate. In some cases, they may instruct you to call the police—but keep the line open so you unknowingly speak to another fraudster.

I have previously sent this warning out, but people are still falling victim. It is really important that you discuss this scam with friends, neighbours, and any groups you attend so we can help prevent further victims.

✅ How to Stay Safe

Police will NEVER ask you to withdraw money, transfer funds, or purchase items as part of an investigation.

If contacted by someone claiming to be a police officer:

Ask for their collar number and incident number.
Hang up, wait at least 5 minutes, or use a different phone to call 101 and verify their identity.
Do not share personal or financial information over the phone.
Do not allow remote access to your devices unless you initiated the contact with a trusted source.

📞 Report and Verify

If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately.

To verify a police officer’s identity, call 101 and provide their collar number and any reference they gave.

PLEASE SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Rebecca Mulholland
(Staffordshire Police, PCSO, Stafford)