A UK Police force has warned the public that criminals are posing as police officers and scamming victims out of thousands.
Devon and Cornwall Police received 12 reports in only two weeks, with the shocking revelation that one victim, an elderly woman, had £14,000 stolen.
Criminals hook victims by impersonating a police officer, saying that they are “assisting with an investigation”.
Once they’ve successfully tricked people into believing they’re a representative from the police, they pressure the victim into withdrawing large amounts from cash machines.
Sgt Tona Pooley said: “Victims are never to blame.
“These fraudsters can be very persuasive and demanding, which unfortunately in this case, has led to some people being scammed out of thousands of pounds.
“If you have been a victim of this scam or to one similar, please report it to the police or to Action Fraud.
“Your information is vital in helping us identify the people who are behind this.”
The National Fraud Helpling reported on a similar case in January this year, where Suffolk Police revealed that there were several incidents of people being telephoned by a fraudster who gave a fake officer’s name and collar number.
Martin Richardson, senior partner at National Fraud Helpline, said: “Fraudsters will stop at nothing when it comes to trying to steal money.
“Pretending to be a police officer is designed to intimidate the victim into doing what the scammer wants. The fraudsters often prey on the most vulnerable in society and leave a trail of devestation.
“We hope that by warning people about these scams that it will help prevent more people from falling victim to the crime.”
Have you lost money to a scam? Contact National Fraud Helpline. Call 0333 0033218 or fill out our Claim Form.