|
||
|
|
||
|
||
|
Bogus Officials |
||
|
Good morning. Resident
In January 2026, West Midlands Police (WMP) has highlighted a rise in "bogus official" scams, where criminals impersonate police officers, council staff, or utility workers to gain entry to homes or steal personal information.
WMP Verification Rules: How to Spot a Fake Officer Genuine West Midlands Police officers will NEVER do the following: Request Money: Ask you for cash, bank cards, or to transfer funds to a "safe account". Ask for Credentials: Request your bank PIN, passwords, or login details over the phone or at the door. Unexpected Contact: Call you out of the blue to ask for personal details related to a "crime scene" or investigation. Demand Access: Ask for remote access to your computer or phone to "assist" an investigation.
Immediate Action for Doorstep Callers Stop & Think: If you are not expecting a visitor, do not open the door. Verify ID: Talk through a closed door or digital doorbell. A genuine officer will always carry a police warrant card and allow you to take a good look at it. Check the Source: Use a separate phone (scammers can hold lines open) to call 101 and ask for the officer’s name and collar number to verify their identity.
Reporting Fraud Crime in Progress: If a bogus official is at your door or in the area, call 999. Previous Incidents: Report historical scams to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. Suspicious Texts: Forward any suspicious messages to 7726 to help authorities block the number. Thank you. | ||
Reply to this message | ||
|
|
