Cumbria police warn people to stay vigilant of scams, as boxing day sales start

Police in Cumbria are warning the public to be cautious of scam phone calls from criminals pretending to be officials during the busy festive season.

Using bus stop adverts throughout Carlisle and Barrow this month, the force has been campaigning to highlight the techniques used by fraudsters to deceive victims into handing over money or personal details.

The adverts display the message, “Don’t be taken in by a friendly voice. Phone fraudsters use trust to steal," as a direct warning about scammers who often pose as bank fraud teams, police officers, or HMRC officials.

Detective Constable Claire Keyes explained how convincing these fraudsters can appear: "The fraudsters who carry out these offences are very persuasive, very friendly and extremely good at making you believe their story.

"But police and other agencies would never request this.

"If you have any concern that the person on the phone may be a fraudster, put the phone down and call the police from a different phone on 101 for advice and guidance."

The scams often involve requests for sensitive bank details, electronic money transfers, or instructions to buy and later deliver valuable items. In some cases, fraudsters ask victims to withdraw cash for collection or send cards and other property via taxi or courier.

Tips to spot a scam

The police have shared guidance to help protect individuals from falling victim to phone fraud:

• Banks, the police, and other agencies will never ask for your bank account details or PIN number over the phone.
• They will not ask you to withdraw money and send it via courier, taxi, bank transfer, or other methods.
• They will never request you send bank cards or personal items via courier or similar means.
• If you’re suspicious or doubtful about someone’s identity on the phone, hang up and contact your bank or local police from a different phone or in person.
• After hanging up, wait five minutes and ensure you hear a dial tone before making another call, as fraudsters can keep the line open.

Cumbria’s Police, Fire, and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, is encouraging the public to stay alert:

"Scammers are experts in gaining your trust and convincing people that they are from legitimate companies and organisations.

"Through their persuasion, they are able to scam innocent victims out of thousands of pounds, which is why it’s so important that we continue to educate the public on how to spot and prevent these scams.

"Anyone can fall for these scams so I would urge anyone to read up on the tips and advice provided by the police to spot any suspicious behaviour and, if you believe you have been targeted by one of these criminals, please report it to the police on 101.

"Remember: if you have any doubts, hang up the phone."

Officers are also asking people to share these warnings with any vulnerable friends or family members to help protect them.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, report it to police on 101. For emergencies, always call 999.