Police issue warning after people impersonating officers scam elderly people across Dorset out of thousands
The people claimed they had someone in custody who’d accessed the victim's bank accounts, and were told to withdraw cash for collection
Last updated 21st Nov 2025
Dorset Police are investigating eight reports of courier fraud or attempted fraud that targeted elderly people in areas including Bournemouth, Poole, Bridport, Purbeck, and Christchurch between 7th November and 14th November 2025.
The fraudsters are reported to have posed as police officers, contacting victims by phone and claiming a person in custody had accessed their bank accounts. The criminals instructed the victims to withdraw large sums of cash, which were then collected by individuals claiming to be plain-clothed officers.
Three victims handed over cash, with the total value amounting to several thousand pounds.
Detective Inspector Jon Sainsbury of BCP CID said: “We are carrying out enquiries into these incidents and I would urge anyone with information that could assist our investigation to please come forward.
“We would also urge anyone who is contacted in a similar manner to please report it to us.
“The police will never ask for your bank details over the phone and we would urge members of the public to be vigilant of this potential scam and to ensure they raise awareness among elderly relatives and neighbours, who we often sadly see targeted by this type of activity.”
Dorset Police have provided advice for spotting fraudulent calls and protecting yourself:
Your bank or the police will never ask for your PIN
Neither the police nor banks will send a courier to collect money from you
If you're asked to contact your bank, always use a different phone from the one you were called on
Do not rush into complying with scammers' demands
If you have already provided bank details or handed over cards, contact your bank immediately to cancel them
The police’s Fraud Protect team are encouraging people to share these tips with elderly relatives and neighbours to educate them about this type of scam.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250170076. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers by calling Freephone 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.