Police warn public over fraudsters posing as officers in phone scam

People are being warned about convincing fraudsters impersonating Avon and Somerset Police officers in an attempt to gain access to money and banking information.

The force has received multiple reports of telephone calls in which individuals claim a person’s personal data has been compromised, their bank accounts are at risk or their details have been linked to criminal activity.

In some cases, callers have claimed a suspect has been arrested and that information belonging to the person they are contacting has been uncovered during the investigation.

Victims may also be given what appears to be a genuine crime or case reference number to make the call seem more credible.

Police believe the fraudsters are using the claims to gain people’s trust before telling them their finances are at risk and asking them to transfer money to a supposed “safe account” or provide sensitive banking information.

Any such account would in fact be controlled by criminals.

The callers have been described as highly professional and convincing, with some reports suggesting they already knew personal details about the people they contacted, including information and nicknames not normally available publicly.

Fraudsters are also believed to be making calls appear as though they originate from genuine Avon and Somerset Police numbers.

Some people who have called the displayed number back have subsequently reached the force, leading them to believe the original approach was genuine.

Reports have also been received from outside the Avon and Somerset policing area.

Amy Samotyj, a fraud protect officer at Avon and Somerset Police, said: “These fraudsters are highly convincing and often sound professional.

“They may claim an arrest has been made, provide what appears to be a genuine case reference number and tell you your personal details have been found as part of a police investigation.

“They may even know some information about you in advance.

“They’re using these tactics to build trust and create a sense of urgency, which can make the calls seem genuine.

“It’s important to remember that fraudsters can spoof telephone numbers, meaning the number displayed on your phone may appear to belong to a trusted organisation when it does not.

“Remember that Avon and Somerset Police will never ask you to move money, transfer funds to a ‘safe account’, withdraw cash, purchase gift cards, hand over bank cards or disclose banking security information as part of an investigation.

“If you receive a call of this nature, end the call and independently verify who has contacted you before taking any action.”

Police are advising people never to share passwords, PINs, one-time passcodes or other financial security information over the phone.

Anyone feeling pressured or being told to act urgently should end the call. A genuine officer will not object to someone independently checking their identity.

People can verify a call by contacting police on 101, preferably using another phone or after allowing time for the line to clear, or by visiting a police station.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted should report the incident to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or through its website. Anyone who has already transferred money should contact their bank immediately.