Derbyshire police issue warning after ‘several’ people receive calls in bogus police officer scam

Derbyshire Constabulary have issued a warning over a scam in which fraudsters are targeting victims in phone calls where they claim to be police officers.
By Alana Roberts
Published 27th Jul 2021, 17:17 BST
Updated 27th Jul 2021, 17:18 BST

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It comes after several people living in Littleover, Normanton and Allestree reported being called by someone claiming to be a DC Jones or a Sergeant Spencer from Hammersmith Police Station.

The fraudsters are said to claim there has been fraudulent activity on the victim’s bank account or that their bank card has been cloned in London.

They then try to obtain money from the victims.

Derbyshire Constabulary have issued a warning over a scam in which fraudsters are targeting victims in phone calls where they claim to be police officers.Derbyshire Constabulary have issued a warning over a scam in which fraudsters are targeting victims in phone calls where they claim to be police officers.
Derbyshire Constabulary have issued a warning over a scam in which fraudsters are targeting victims in phone calls where they claim to be police officers.
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Issuing a warning, Derbyshire Constabulary said: “If you receive such a call you should not give out any personal information and hang up the call immediately.

"We know that this type of call can be linked to courier fraud.

"This means that victims will be encouraged to withdraw funds from their bank accounts and give cash or bank cards to a courier arranged by the ‘police officer.’

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"The police will never contact you asking for banking information or request that you withdraw money from an account, purchase gold bullion or high-value jewellery to aid an investigation.

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"Fraudsters often target geographical areas where they know elderly or vulnerable people live, so we would ask that if you have family or friends who are vulnerable in any way that you make them aware of this scam.

"If you, or someone you know, receives a call of this nature please contact us as soon as possible. We will then assess the area that is being targeted, alert the banks and endeavour to protect other local residents to prevent any financial loss.

"Should you receive one of these calls, we advise you to end the call, wait five minutes and ensure you can hear a dial tone before calling us on 101. To call your bank, please use the number found on the back of your card.”

All calls of this nature should also be reported to Action Fraud 0300 120 2040 or online via www.actionfraud.police.uk.

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To report to Derbyshire police call 101, or contact the force on Facebook, Twitter, or by filling out an online contact form.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing you can also text on 07800 002414 or email us at [email protected]

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