Fake Police Scam Hits Kent – Warns Residents
Kent residents have been warned to stay alert after a dodgy phone scam targeted an elderly woman in Sevenoaks. On Monday, 20 January 2020, around 12.30pm, a man pretending to be a cop called the West Kingsdown resident, claiming to be from Paddington Police Station.
Fraudster Spins Web of Lies
The scammer gave a fake police ID and claimed her bank card had been used fraudulently at a Central London department store. He even said two people were arrested and suspected her card had been cloned.
Luckily, the woman didn’t fall for it. She refused to hand over any bank details and passed the phone to her husband. He grilled the caller about the police station—questions the scammer couldn’t answer—before the conman hung up.
Police Urge Caution: Don’t Get Fooled
Chief Inspector John Kirby of Sevenoaks warned, “This is one of several similar incidents across Kent in recent months. It’s likely the same crooks are targeting the elderly and vulnerable. Our fraud team works hard, but the best defence is knowing the signs of a scam call.”
He added: “The police will never ask for your bank details or money over the phone. Never hand over cash or valuables to anyone claiming to be a police officer or a courier. If you get a suspicious call, hang up immediately. Wait at least five minutes before using your phone again—this helps clear the line from scammers.”
Spot the Scam, Protect Your Cash
- Police never request bank details or money via phone.
- Don’t hand over valuables to supposed police or couriers.
- Challenge suspicious callers – genuine officers will never mind.
- End suspicious calls straight away and wait before calling back.
Stay sharp, Kent – don’t let the scammers win!
