Notts thieves pose as police officers

Fraud investigators at Nottinghamshire Police are warning people to be on their guard after an incident where fraudsters posed as Metropolitan Police officers.

On Monday, 13 June 2016, the victim, from the Eastwood area, was contacted over the phone by a man claiming to be from the Metropolitan Police’s Flying Squad who were engaged in investigating local frauds.

The thieves convinced the man to withdraw money from his bank account, claiming there had been fraudulent activity, and to give it to a courier for safe-keeping.

The same man was attempting to withdraw another amount of money on Wednesday (15 June, 2016) when his bank alerted police to the suspicious activity, preventing a further theft.

Det Con Mark Suaznabar: “This is a type of fraud which has been used throughout the country and we are keen to get the word out that it appears people are now being targeted in the Nottinghamshire area.

“It is important to remember that the police will never ask you to hand over money, bank cars or your PIN.

“Please spread this message and the advice below to relatives, particularly those who are elderly or vulnerable.”

If you have any information about this particular incident please call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 554 of 15 June, 2016 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

They have offered the following advice:

- If someone identifies themselves as a police officer to you in person, ask to see their identification. You can check their details by calling 101 and asking the operator to confirm the officer’s details.

- If someone calls you on the phone claiming to be a police officer get their details and call them back through the police switchboard by dialling 101.

- No genuine officer will ever refuse to show you ID or refuse to let you confirm their identity.

- If you are not sure that a person at your doorstep is a police officer close your door and call 999.

- If you think that you have been targeted by a person on the phone claiming to be a police officer hang up and report it by calling 101 or online at actionfraud.police.uk

- If you would like any further help or advice on preventing cyber-crime and fraud please call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or get regularly updated advice by visitingwww.nottinghamshire.police.uk/advice and Action Fraud.

- If you have information about any crime or see anyone acting suspiciously in your area please call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

- In an emergency, for example where life is in danger or a crime is in progress please call 999.