Bogus Officials

What to do if you come into contact with any "bogus official" scams, whereby criminals impersonate police officers, council staff, or utility workers to gain entry to homes or steal personal information.

West Midlands Police Verification Rules: How to Spot a Fake Officer

Genuine West Midlands Police Officers will NEVER do the following: 

*  Request Money: Ask you for cash, bank cards, or to transfer funds to a "safe account".

*  Ask for Credentials: Request your bank PIN, passwords, or login details over the phone or at the door.

*  Unexpected Contact: Call you out of the blue to ask for personal details related to a "crime scene" or investigation.

*  Demand Access: Ask for remote access to your computer or phone to "assist" an investigation. 

Immediate Action for Doorstep Callers 

*  Stop & Think: If you are not expecting a visitor, do not open the door.

*  Verify ID: Talk through a closed door or digital doorbell. A genuine officer will always carry a Police Warrant Card and allow you to take a good look at it.

*  Check the Source: Use a separate phone (scammers can hold lines open) to call 101 and ask for the officer’s name and collar number to verify their identity. 

Reporting Fraud

*  Crime in Progress: If a bogus official is at your door or in the area, call 999.

*  Previous Incidents: Report historical scams to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

*  Suspicious Texts: Forward any suspicious messages to 7726 to help authorities block the number.