Police Impersonation Fraud Alert

Police Impersonation Fraud Alert

Cheshire Police Fraud and Cybercrime Team

Police Impersonation Fraud Alert

We've received reports of fraudsters contacting people by phone and claiming to be police officers.

In some cases, they claim a suspect has been arrested and a device seized. They then allege that cryptocurrency accounts, bank accounts, or other online accounts have been compromised and need to be "secured".

The fraudsters may follow up with an email to appear legitimate, but the email address will not be from an official police domain.

Warning signs include: 

Unexpected calls about cryptocurrency, investments or online accounts

Claims that your money or accounts are at immediate risk

Requests for passwords, login details, or cryptocurrency wallet seed phrases

Emails sent to "prove" the caller is genuine

Pressure to act quickly or keep the conversation confidential

Remember: 

Police will never ask for your passwords or banking PINs.

Police will never ask for cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrases or seed phrases.

Police will never pressure you into moving money or assets to a "safe account".

If you receive a call like this:

Hang up immediately.

Do not provide any personal, financial or account information.

Do not click links in follow-up emails.

Verify any contact through official channels by calling 101.

Report fraud to Report Fraud and your local police force.

Report Fraud:

0300 123 2040

https://orlo.uk/soyBU

Recent data breaches affecting cryptocurrency providers mean fraudsters may have access to names, email addresses and other customer information. Even if a caller knows personal details about you, do not assume they are genuine.

Please share this advice with friends, family and neighbours, particularly anyone who invests in cryptocurrency or may be vulnerable to fraud.

#FraudAlert#CyberProtect#StopThinkFraud#StayCyberAware#FraudPrevention