Crime prevention notice: Impersonating a police officer

It is a criminal offence to personate a police officer. While the vast majority of police interactions are genuine, opportunistic criminals can use fake badges or uniforms to deceive the public.

Knowing how to recognise a police officer can help you keep yourself and your community safe.

Most Met officers will be in full uniform. However, you may be approached by plainclothes (undercover) officers. Here is how to verify them: 

• ​Ask for Identification: Every genuine police officer, whether in uniform or plainclothes, carries a Warrant Card. This is a pocket-sized identification card featuring their photograph, name, rank, badge number, and a holographic Met Police logo.

• ​Look for Body-Worn Video camera and a radio - most of the officers in plainclothes still will be carrying these with them.

​If an individual stops you claiming to be a police officer, but they refuse to show a warrant card, become aggressive, or behave suspiciously, trust your instincts and call 999 immediately. 

A genuine Met Police officer will never be offended by you asking to verify their identity. They understand the public's concerns and will willingly wait while you call 999 and also will provide their warrant card.