Warning in Warwickshire as police impersonators target vulnerable
Scammers exploit police identities to deceive vulnerable people
Police are urging the public to remain vigilant after reports of fraudsters impersonating Gloucestershire Constabulary officers have recently surfaced.
These scammers have been calling individuals in Cheltenham, Milton Keynes, Poole, Suffolk, Sunderland, and Warwickshire, pretending to be from the Hester's Way Police Station in Cheltenham.
The fraudsters have been tricking individuals by spoofing the police station's phone number, providing fake badge numbers, and requesting sensitive information like passport numbers.
Victims are often misled into believing they should not share this information with friends or family under the guise of assisting with an ongoing investigation.
Police are particularly concerned about the elderly and vulnerable, urging family members to inform and protect them against such scams.
If you suspect that you might be dealing with an impersonator, immediately stop and call 101 to verify their identity.
The force recommend hanging up and waiting several minutes before placing a call to ensure the line is genuinely disconnected, as fraudsters may keep the line open.
Additionally, it is crucial to remember that police officers will never ask for personal or bank details, cash or cards to be handed over, or demand fine payments over phone calls or online.
They will also not request access to computers or log-on information or coerce individuals into participating in scams under duress.