Derbyshire residents are being tricked out of cash by fraudsters pretending to be police officers in a scam which could be linked to courier fraud.

Derbyshire Constabulary have reported that residents have fallen victim to a scam which sees fraudsters contacting people within the postal code areas of DE22 and DE56, claiming to be a DC Matthew Phillips, PC Christy or Sergeant Atkins from a police station in Derby. They already know personal details, such as the resident’s name, address and basic banking details.

The victim is asked to stay on the line and dial 999 to verify the identity of the ‘police officer,’ however someone will answer the call pretending to be from Derbyshire police and will then verify the caller. Due to the fact the victim is asked to stay on the line and dial 999, the original call is never terminated and they remain in contact with the fraudster at all times.

The caller goes on to say that he is investigating the unauthorised use of that person’s bank card at local stores such as M&S and Asda. The use of locations that will be familiar to the victim makes the call appear more genuine.

Victims are told that secrecy is key and are advised they should not tell anyone about this call as it may jeopardise the police investigation.

The constabulary are urging people to share this warning with friends and family so they can help protect older people in the community, who are typically targeted.

The constabulary are aware that this type of call can be linked to courier fraud. This means that victims will be encouraged to withdraw funds from their bank accounts or Euros from a local bureau de change to give to a courier, arranged by the ‘police officer’ making the call under the guise of ‘assisting with a police investigation.’

The police will never contact you asking for banking information or request that you withdraw money from an account to aid an investigation.

If you receive such a call, you should not give out any personal information and hang up the call immediately. Wait five minutes and ensure you can hear a dial tone before calling 101. To call your bank, please use the number found on the back of your card.

All reports of this nature should be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 120 2040 or online via www.actionfraud.police.uk.

If you, or someone you know, receives a call of this nature, contact the police as soon as possible. They will then assess the area that is being targeted, alert the banks and endeavour to protect other local residents to prevent any financial loss.

Reporting

Report all Fraud and Cybercrime to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or online. Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. Report SMS scams by forwarding the original message to 7726 (spells SPAM on the keypad).