Derbyshire Constabulary is reiterating its advice and support to residents following reports of scam calls across the county.
Over recent days, there has been an increase in calls from people impersonating police officers or bank employees and asking residents to hand over money or bank cards.
Calls have been reported in the Belper and Alfreton areas, with scammers targeting elderly or vulnerable people.
Some callers have claimed that bank cards need to be collected because of a problem with the victim’s account. Others have posed as police officers investigating a crime, claiming to have found identity documents belonging to the person they have contacted.
In one reported incident, a man lost thousands of pounds after being contacted by someone claiming to be an officer from the Metropolitan Police.
Derbyshire Constabulary is urging residents to remain vigilant and to share the warning with family members and friends.
Fraud Protect Officer Tammy Barnes said: “These callers pretend to be investigating a crime involving the victims’ card or bank account.
“They then ask for money transfers, or even for cash withdrawals or bank cards to be given to a courier, to ‘assist with the investigation’ which the police will never do.
“We also know that these fraudsters often target one geographical area before moving on to the next, so please spread this message far and wide.”
On previous occasions, scammers have asked victims to call 999 to verify their claims but have remained on the line to continue the fraud.
The police will never request banking information or ask someone to provide money to assist with an investigation.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call should hang up and report it as soon as possible. Reports help police identify targeted areas, alert banks and prevent further scams.
Reports can be made using the following methods:
Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting the Crimestoppers website.
Anyone reporting the incident by phone should wait at least five minutes after ending the scam call and make sure they can hear a dial tone before calling 101.