Report Fraud has warned about a spike in calls that seem to come from real UK police force numbers. They don't. It's a criminal hiding their real number.
How it fools people
"Spoofing" makes the caller ID show a trusted number, like the police, your bank or a government office. The caller says you're helping with an investigation and asks for personal or bank details. Some calls are automated or use AI.
Warning signs
You're asked to move money, share bank details or let someone control your computer
Pressure to act now
You're told the caller ID proves who they are
Real police and banks will NEVER ask for these. Caller ID is not proof.
Not sure? Hang up.
Call back on a number you trust: 159 for your bank, 101 for the police. Report the call by texting "Call" and the number to 7726.
Been caught?
Call your bank straight away on the number on your card. Report it to Report Fraud at reportfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040 (Scotland: 101).
Source: Report Fraud alert, 15 October 2026 - https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/news/alert-police-forces-being-impersonated-in-scam-calls/
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Cyber security for the rest of us. 🛡️