Fake Cop Scam Hits Ashford and Kent Pensioners
On Thursday, January 26, 2023, seven unsuspecting residents from Ashford, Canterbury, and Folkestone received chilling calls from a scammer posing as ‘Hammersmith Police.’
The fraudster told five victims they had been arrested for using a cloned bank card in their name. One pensioner was even told to dial 999 – but the scammer stayed on the line, tricking them into calling the same bogus number.
Thankfully, all seven grew suspicious, refused to hand over bank details, and hung up.
Pensioner Duped in Follow-Up Scam
The next day, January 27, a similar scam call targeted an eighth elderly victim in the North Downs area, who sadly lost a large sum of money.
Police Warn: Don’t Fall for It
Margate CID Detective Inspector Sheena Barrell warned:
“Scammers are coming up with ever more convincing stories to trick vulnerable and elderly victims into handing over big money.”
“Remember, police will NEVER ask for your bank details or money on the phone. If you get a call like this, hang up right away and report it via our online form.”
How to Stay Safe
- If a supposed officer calls, ask for their details and then end the call immediately to verify.
- Wait at least five minutes before ringing 101 or 999 to ensure the line is clear, then confirm if the call was genuine.
- Never hand over cash or valuables to couriers after such calls.
Have info on these scams? Contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/16428/23.
You can also report suspicious activity to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online.
Prefer to stay anonymous? Call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or use their website form.
