Warning issued following reports of police impersonation fraud

Warning issued following reports of police impersonation fraud

We are urging the public to be vigilant after reports that calls had been received from people claiming to be from West Midlands Police. 

It was reported that the calls appeared to be from a genuine West Midlands Police switchboard number, 0121 626 5000, but that the offenders had likely used caller ID spoofing.

The offenders claimed to be detectives from West Midlands Police.

One person was told they would receive an email with a link that they needed to click. 

Using fake officer names, collar numbers, log numbers and crime references, the offenders asked questions in an effort to extract information.

An investigation is underway to identify who is responsible for making these calls. 

There are a number of steps you can take to try to prevent this from happening: 

• You can always ask a police officer for identification. All our officers have a collar number and a warrant card - if in any doubt, call 101 to check the details given to you are genuine.

• Never give personal information in response to an incoming call, particularly if the caller is asking you to do something that will affect you financially, including any personal bank information.

• We will never ask you to disclose your PIN number, card or bank details, either in person, on the phone or online. 

• If you receive such a call end it immediately. Wait five minutes for the phone line to clear, or call from a different number, and contact the police by dialling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Anybody who believes they have received one of these fake calls can report it on 101 or via our website.

Further fraud crime prevention advice can be found on the Report Fraud site at www.reportfraud.police.uk

Please share this information with your family, friends and neighbours who may be vulnerable to this scam.