BE AWARE! Scam phone calls from criminals impersonating Police Officers

BE AWARE! Scam phone calls from criminals impersonating Police Officers

Good afternoon, Resident

I would like to make residents aware of an increase in reports of scam telephone calls from individuals falsely claiming to be police officers. These callers may sound convincing and may provide fake names, collar numbers, or claim that your bank account has been compromised. They may ask you to withdraw money, transfer funds, purchase gift cards, hand over cash or valuables, or provide personal and banking details.

Another recent example was ‘police’ were monitoring a burglar in the area and they had information that they will try and target your home, do you any expensive jewellery in the house? victim said YES, around £8,000 and the ‘police’ then offered to secure this and sent a courier - they will always try and come up with new ideas so please follow the advice below -

Please remember:

✅ Police officers will never ask you for your bank account details or PIN numbers.
✅ Police will never request that you transfer money to a "safe account".
✅ Police will never ask you to withdraw cash for safekeeping or purchase gift cards or vouchers.
✅ If you are unsure whether a caller is genuine, end the call and wait at least five minutes before using the same phone, or use a different phone to contact the police or your bank directly.

Crime Prevention Advice

Be suspicious of unexpected calls requesting personal, financial or security information.

Never share passwords, PIN numbers, one-time passcodes or online banking details.

Take your time and do not be pressured into making immediate decisions.

Verify the caller's identity independently using a trusted telephone number.

Talk to a trusted friend or family member if you are unsure.

Consider using call-blocking services if you regularly receive nuisance calls.

For further advice on protecting yourself from fraud, please visit Kent Police's fraud prevention page:

🔗 Internet, email and mobile phone fraud | Kent Police
https://www.kent.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/internet-email-mobile-fraud/

How to Report

📞 If a crime is taking place or someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

📞 To report fraud, suspicious calls, or provide information, contact Kent Police on 101 or report online via the Kent Police website.

📞 You can also report fraud to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Please share this message with family members, friends and neighbours, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to fraudsters. Staying informed is one of the best ways to prevent becoming a victim.

If you found this message useful please “like” by clicking the thumbs up button below. Also please spread the word, share this message on social media and with your local networks to raise awareness by clicking the share button. Encouraging engagement from the wider community is key to preventing further incidents.

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Steven Shipley
(Kent Police, Police constable, Swanley Neighbourhood Policing Team)