Fake Cop Phone Scams Target Elderly in Town Centre
Three pensioners in the town centre were nearly duped by scammers pretending to be police officers on Friday 18 November 2022.
The fraudsters told two victims that a crook had been caught trying to use cloned bank cards in their names. A third was warned a criminal was using a cloned card at a London jewellers.
Luckily, all three smelt a rat, refused to hand over any bank details, and cut the calls.
More Pensioners Hit With Similar Scam Calls
Then, on Monday 20 November, a fourth elderly victim was phoned by a fraudster claiming someone was in custody at Hammersmith police station.
Once again, the pensioner was alert and ended the call before any damage could be done.
Police Warn: Don’t Fall for Cloned Card Calls
Detective Chief Inspector Rik Spicer said: “These conmen try to scare you by saying there’s fraud on your bank account or that someone’s been arrested for using a cloned card in your name.
“The victims were right to be suspicious and hung up before giving any details. The police will NEVER ask for your bank information or money over the phone. If you get a call like this, hang up immediately.”
Stay Safe – How to Spot & Report These Scams
- If unsure, ask the caller for their details and end the call.
- Wait five minutes, then ring 101 or 999 to check if the call was genuine.
- Never give money or valuables to a courier after a call like this.
- Report suspicious calls to Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 20-1077.
- Contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040, or report online.
- Report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
