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Scam warning: Criminals posing as police officers to steal money

Published on 04 November 2026 03:57 PM

Older people are being targeted by criminals pretending to be police officers, using convincing stories to persuade people to hand over their money.

The caller may claim to be investigating fraud at your bank and tell you that your account or savings are at risk. They may insist you need to withdraw cash or transfer your money to a so-called “safe account” to protect it.

These callers can sound very convincing. They may know some personal information about you and use a fake police name, collar number or crime reference number to make their story seem genuine.

But remember: the police will never ask you to:

  • Move your money to a “safe account”.

  • Withdraw cash as part of an investigation.

  • Give them your PIN, password or full banking details.

  • Hand over your cash, bank card or valuables to someone they send to collect them.

STOP – HANG UP – CHECK

If you receive a call like this, follow three simple steps:

STOP: Don't panic or feel pressured to act immediately. Take a moment to think.

HANG UP: End the call. Don't give the caller any personal or financial information.

CHECK: Contact your bank using the number on the back of your bank card, or contact the police using a number you've found independently. Never use a number supplied by the caller.

If possible, use a different phone to make the call. Scammers may try to keep your telephone line open after you hang up.

What if you've already been targeted?

If you've shared banking details or transferred money, contact your bank immediately using a genuine number. You can also get in touch with us and we will help you. Tracey, our Scams Officer, is contactable on 07584 100650.

You can also report fraud to Report Fraud, the national reporting service for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, at www.reportfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

If you think someone is trying to scam you, don't be embarrassed or afraid to ask for help. These criminals are skilled at gaining people's trust, and anyone can be targeted.

No genuine police officer will ask you to move your money to protect it. If in doubt, STOP, HANG UP and CHECK.