Scammers pose as Merseyside Police officers in spoofed calls
Police are urging the public to be vigilant after reports calls had been received from people purporting to be from Merseyside Police and asking for payment over the phone.
It was reported the calls appeared to be from a genuine Merseyside Police switchboard number, 0151 709 6010, but that the offenders had likely used caller ID spoofing.
Most identified it as a scam and did not disclose sensitive information, but one caller did transfer a significant quantity of money.
The offenders claimed to be officers or Cyber Crime officers from Merseyside Police.
The offenders claimed someone had been arrested with the victim's ID, passport or personal details; that the victim was linked to a cyber crime investigation; that property had been seized during police riads containing the victim’s details and that cryptocurrency accounts had been compromised.
Using fake officer names, collar numbers and crime references, the offenders asked questions in an effort to extract information about cryptocurrency held, banking arrangements, personal details and online accounts.
An investigation is underway and CCTV and witness enquiries are being carried out into the incidents.
Detective Sergeant John Causton said: “Impersonating a police officer is a criminal offence which puts our communities at risk.
“We will not hesitate to investigate any reports whether on people’s doorsteps, on the phone or online so that we can take action and bring offenders to justice.
“Shamefully, offenders like this often deliberately target the most vulnerable in our community. I would ask people to take a few minutes to speak to friends or relatives who may be vulnerable to such a scam so they are aware of the risks and have the right advice and guidance.
“There are a number of steps you and they 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, you can always check the name, collar number and crime reference numbers provided are genuine by calling 101.
“Remember, a police officer should never ask you to disclose your PIN number or card details, either in person, on the phone or online.
“If you suspect someone is impersonating a police officer please contact police.”
Anyone with information which could assist the investigation is asked to DM @MerPolCC quoting reference number 919 of 12 October.
Further fraud crime prevention advice can be found on the Merseyside Police website, or on the Report Fraud site atwww.reportfraud.police.uk
You can report fraud to Merseyside Police here:https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/fo/v2/report-fraud-bribery-corruption/
