Stay safe from bank and police impersonation scams

Hello Resident,

We are aware of recent reports where criminals are contacting members of the public on the phone, posing as bank staff or police officers.

These scams can be very convincing, but you can protect yourself by knowing the signs and taking simple steps.

🚨 What the scammers do. 

Criminals may contact you claiming:

- Your bank account has been compromised
- Your money is at risk and needs to be “moved”
- They are a police officer investigating fraud
- They need your account details, card, or PIN
- A courier will visit your home to collect your bank card, cash, or documents.

They may spoof phone numbers so the call appears to look genuine on screen.

If someone claims to be from your bank:

✔ Hang up immediately if you are told your funds or accounts are at risk
✔ Do not move money or share any personal or banking information
✔ Report the incident to Report Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.

If someone claims to be from the police:

✔ Ask for their name and collar number.
✔ Hang up the phone.
✔ Wait a few minutes or use a different phone.
✔ Call 101 to confirm the officer’s details.
✔ Real police officers will never ask you to move money, share PINs or hand over bank cards.

✅ Top tips to remember:

•    Banks and police will NEVER ask you to transfer money to a “safe account”.
•    Do not trust caller ID as numbers can be spoofed.
•    Take your time. Genuine organisations will never pressure you.
•    If in doubt, end the call. You are always allowed to check.
•    If a courier is on route to or outside your property. Call 999 immediately. This is a crime in progress, and do not open the door or hand anything over.

Need help? 

You can report it to us online (www.wiltshire.police.uk/ro/report/fo/v2/report-fraud-bribery-corruption/) or if you think you’ve been targeted, contact your bank straight away and report it to Report Fraud (0300 123 2040).