Wiltshire residents are being urged to stay alert after reports of fraudsters posing as police officers in an attempt to access people’s bank accounts.
According to Wiltshire Police, members of the public have received phone calls from individuals claiming to be officers. During the call, the fraudster tells the victim that a package in their name is being held as part of an investigation.
To make the story appear convincing, callers have reportedly provided fake crime reference numbers and warned that the person will receive a follow-up call from their bank.
In the second stage of the scam, someone posing as a bank representative then contacts the victim and attempts to gain access to their account details.
Police say they have received multiple enquiries from concerned residents asking them to verify whether the officer who contacted them was genuine.
A spokesperson said anyone unsure about the identity of a caller claiming to be a police officer should hang up and contact police directly on 101, which operates 24 hours a day.
Residents are also advised to report suspicious calls to the police and to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre.
If you have been contacted by someone claiming to be from your bank, or told that your bank will call you, police recommend contacting your bank directly using the number on the back of your card to ensure your account remains secure.
Wiltshire Police are reminding people that genuine police officers and bank staff will never pressure you into sharing sensitive information over the phone.
Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to the scam should contact their bank immediately.
Want to know what’s on in Calne? Visit our local events page for listings and to find out how to add your own events for free. Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok to keep up with all the latest news. Have you got a story for us? Email editor@calnenews.com.
