PEOPLE are being warned against scams from criminals claiming to be police.
Courier fraudsters are attempting to convince people they are legitimate police officers, often saying they are from the ‘fraud squad’ or ‘New Scotland Yard’.
They are attempting to persuade people to part with cash or expensive items like watches and are later collected by a fake courier who is working with the bogus police officer on the phone.
The caller tell their victim to call 999 to confirm the details to police, but they stay on the phone so when they pick up again thinking they have dialled police, they are instead speaking to another person pretending to be an officer.
Fraudsters also claim to be a police officer calling to say a bank card had been used for a fraudulent transaction, and then lie about an investigation being conducted.
Courier fraud can seem convincing but no police officer from any force will ever ask you to make a payment or purchase, withdraw or transfer money or ask for your bank details.
Operation Prospero addresses incidents such as these by specifically focusing on apprehending individuals who impersonate police officers.
This operation operates in collaboration with Action Fraud, the UK’s central hub for reporting fraud and cyber-crime.
Visit Door-to-door and courier fraud | West Mercia Police for more information.
Anyone who thinks they may have been contacted by a bogus police officer should call 101 or report it via the website Report a crime | West Mercia Police
