North Yorkshire Police issue urgent warning over fake police phone scam
Police have seen an increase in fraudsters targeting people in North Yorkshire, claiming to be officers from New Scotland Yard, or the Met Police.
These fraudsters pretend someone has been arrested in London (or elsewhere in the country) in order to get access to the victim's card details
The fraudsters invite the victims to verify their credentials by calling 999 or similar – this is part of the offence – and they simply stay on the line which means the call remains connected.
A different offender will then pretend to take the 999 call, creating the illusion it is the police.
A police spokesperson said: “Always be aware of the need to cancel and end a call properly, especially when using a landline.
"Try to use a separate or different device if you need to verify someone’s identity.
“If you have concerns about a police officer’s identity – clear the call, wait for a dialling tone (if using a landline), then contact our control room via 101 who will be able to verify an officer's ID.
"Fraudsters may pretend to be police officers, or other times they'll pretend to be from the Financial Conduct Authority or bank staff on the phone. They often claim your bank account is at risk and instruct victims to withdraw or transfer cash, or hand over bank cards, PIN numbers, jewellery, or valuables to a ‘courier’.”
Your bank or the Police will NEVER: • Ask for your PIN or online banking password • Request you withdraw cash or ask you to part with valuables. • Ask you to transfer money to a “safe account” • Send a courier to collect money, cards, or valuables
If you receive a suspicious call: • Hang up immediately • Contact your bank using the number on the back of your card • Report it to the police via 101 or Report Fraud