Warning to residents over ‘police officer’ scam calls
Police in south Shropshire have warned residents about a scam where a criminal pretending to be an officer has been ringing people up and asking for their bank card details.
Bishop's Castle and Rural safer neighbourhood team say the police will never contact you asking for your bank card details or cash, and potential victims should hang up and report the incident to Action Fraud.
Based at Bishops Castle police station, in Union Street, the team of officers covers a wide patch of south Shropshire including Clun, Bucknell, Ratlinghope, Stiperstones, Worthen and Chirbury.
"There have been a number of reports received during December from local members of the public where they have been reportedly phoned by a ‘police officer’ claiming to be from the nearest local police station. The ‘officer’ claims to be making enquiries about fraudulent use of the victim's bank card, likely in order to gain banking details.
"Please remember If someone does, it's a scam – provide no details, hang up and report it immediately to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040."
They add that if you receive a call that you’re not sure about, simply terminate the call and also pass on the information to friends, relatives and neighbours and advise them what to do.
The SNT team's December newsletter adds: "If you have recently provided bank details or handed over cards or cash, or the caller has arranged for someone to visit your address to collect items, you should call the police to report this on 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency."
