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The Police
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Impersonation scams


Police are warning residents to be vigilant following reports of phone scams in which the cold caller is pretending to be a Police Officer/Action Fraud/from a fraud department or similar.

People have been contacted by fraudsters with a storyline to withdraw funds from their bank account or give bank cards to someone who will collect them under the guise of ‘assisting with a police investigation’ or similar storyline.

Any Police, Bank, Financial Conduct Authority or Fraud departments: -

  • will never ask an individual to transfer money or ask them to purchase items.
  • will never ask an individual to become involved in an investigation or assist them by transferring their own money or using their own money.
  • will never ask for someone’s card pin number or full card details.
  • will never ask you to withdraw your money and send a courier to collect it.
  • We advise you to;

  • hang up and wait for 5-10 minutes, or phone a friend or relative to clear the line.
  • If you need to check a police officer calling is a genuine officer contact your local police force by dialling 101 or via the webchat on the website.
  • Talk to your friends and family about any cold callers and ask for their help and advice. 
  • If you have been a victim of this type or any type of fraud please contact your bank/building society immediately and then report to your local police on 101 and report to Action Fraud.
  • If you have any information or concerns please phone 101 or make contact via the Devon & Cornwall Police website.

    Thank you.


    Reply to this message

    Message Sent By
    Linzi Berryman
    (Police, Alert Officer, Devon & Cornwall)

    Neighbourhood Alert Cyber Essentials