Bogus Cop Tries to Scam Elderly Women in Stratford
On Friday, 29 January, two elderly ladies were targeted near the Stratford Centre, E15, by a man pretending to be a police officer. The fake cop accused them of breaking Covid rules and forced them to a cash machine. There, he demanded a £500 fine on the spot.
Quick-Acting Officers Nab Fraudster
Thankfully, real officers spotted the scam in action and swooped in to arrest the man. He now faces charges of blackmail and impersonating a police officer.
Detective Inspector Vince Fedder, Met’s North East Criminal Investigation Unit, warned: “Thankfully officers were on scene and quickly dealt with this incident. But the public must stay alert – some crooks are using the Covid crisis to exploit vulnerable people.”
“We understand these are tough, lonely times. But knowing how to spot a bogus officer could save someone from a nasty scam. If you think you or someone you know has been targeted, call police on 101.”
How to Spot a Fake Police Officer
- Real police not in uniform will always show their warrant card. It includes a hologram and the Commissioner’s signature.
- If unsure, ask for their warrant number and call 101 to verify.
- A genuine officer will never ask for remote computer access or send suspicious emails with attachments.
Fake Officers Will Never:
- Ask for bank details, PINs, or passwords.
- Request funds transfers or handing over cash or bank cards to couriers.
- Demand fines or fees in person, over the phone, or online.
- Threaten you with arrest for refusing to pay.
If contacted by phone, be cautious. If you suspect a caller is a bogus officer, hang up, wait five minutes, then call 101. Some scammers keep the line open to trick victims.
Stay sharp and don’t let fraudsters get away with it!
