North Yorkshire Police issues warning to public after fraudsters impersonate officers by phone
North Yorkshire Police is urging residents to remain vigilant after fraudsters were reported using what appeared to be genuine police telephone numbers in an attempt to steal personal information.
The warning comes after a member of the public received a suspicious phone call from a number that appeared to be linked to North Yorkshire Police.
During the call, the fraudster attempted to persuade the recipient to hand over personal details.
However, the victim recognised something was wrong and ended the call before providing any information.
Police say the number displayed on the recipient's phone is likely to have been ‘spoofed’ – a tactic used by criminals to disguise their real number by making it appear as though they are calling from a trusted organisation.
Officers have also been made aware of similar reports involving telephone numbers linked to Durham Police and Devon & Cornwall Police in recent days.
A spokesperson at North Yorkshire Police said: “To be very clear – the police or other reputable organisations will never ask you for your bank account details.
"They will also never ask you to confirm personal details over the phone like this.
“If you're unsure if a call is legitimate, hang up and contact a family member, a trusted individual, or call us on 101 for advice.
"Genuine callers won't be offended by your caution.”
Officers are asking residents to share the warning with elderly relatives, neighbours and other vulnerable members of the community, who are often specifically targeted by telephone scammers.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam is encouraged to report it to Report Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or by visiting https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/
Incidents can also be reported to North Yorkshire Police by calling 101.