Police Impersonation Scam Calls UK: How to Spot & Stop Them
Fake police calls are one of the most sophisticated UK scams—but there are clear ways to tell them apart from the real thing.
What is this scam?
In a police impersonation scam, criminals call you pretending to be officers from your local police force, Action Fraud, or the National Crime Agency (NCA). They claim you're a victim of fraud, your bank account has been compromised, or you're involved in a criminal investigation. The scammer creates a sense of emergency and fear, then pressures you to take immediate action—usually transferring money to a 'safe account', buying iTunes or Google Play cards, or revealing passwords and personal financial details. Some versions use caller ID spoofing to make it look like the call is coming from a real police number. Others are more crude, with poor English and obvious threats. The goal is always the same: steal your money or personal information before you have time to think clearly.
Warning signs to look for
- Real police will never ask you to move money to a 'safe account' or buy gift cards over the phone.
- Genuine officers won't ask for your full password, PIN, or security codes via telephone.
- Scammers often have strong accents or background noise that sounds like a busy police station—real calls tend to be clearer.
- They pressure you to act immediately and warn you not to tell anyone, especially your bank. Real police won't tell you to keep it secret.
- Real police have your details on file; scammers often ask questions to 'verify' information you've already given them.
- The caller may reference a fake crime reference number or claim your National Insurance number has been 'frozen'.
- Requests to download remote access software or banking apps 'to complete your statement' are always a scam.
- Legitimate police calls usually come to you at expected times; scammers often call late evening or early morning.
How this scam works step by step
The scam typically begins with an unsolicited call to your landline or mobile. The caller claims to be a police officer or fraud investigator and mentions a specific concern—your card has been cloned, money has been taken from your account, or your details are linked to a crime. They use your real name and may reference genuine bank names to sound credible. They then ask you to verify personal information like your address, date of birth, or account number. Once they've gained your trust and created panic, they instruct you to move money to a 'safe account' (actually their own), buy Google Play or iTunes gift cards and read out the codes, or use remote access software to 'secure' your computer. They'll stay on the phone with you to ensure you comply. If you hesitate, they threaten arrest or freezing of your benefits. By the time you realise it's a scam, the money is gone or your devices are compromised.
How to verify if it is genuine
If you receive a call claiming to be from police, hang up immediately. This is the safest action. Call back using the non-emergency police number 101, or contact your bank using the number on the back of your card—never use a number given to you by the caller. Real police and fraud teams have your details already; they won't ask you to verify yourself through a phone call. You can also check with Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) to see if there's a genuine investigation. Request to visit your local police station in person if something feels urgent. Real police investigations don't require immediate money transfers or gift card purchases over the phone. If you're unsure whether a website or organisation is legitimate, see our guide on how to verify suspicious contacts. Trust your instincts: if something feels rushed or unusual, it's almost certainly a scam.
What to do if you have already interacted
If you've already given personal information, contact your bank immediately using the number on the back of your card and ask them to flag your account. If you've sent money, report it to your bank straight away—they may be able to freeze the transfer depending on how recently it was sent. If you've bought gift cards and given away the codes, that money is likely lost, but still report it to your bank and to Action Fraud. If you downloaded remote access software, change all your passwords immediately from a different device. Consider using a password manager to create strong new passwords. Run antivirus software and consider having your computer checked by a professional. If you've given your National Insurance number, date of birth, or address, monitor your credit file through Clearscore or Experian for signs of identity theft. Don't panic if nothing happens immediately—fraudsters sometimes save your information to use later. Report the incident to Action Fraud and get a crime reference number for your records.
Reporting this scam in the UK
Report the scam to Action Fraud immediately by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting actionfraud.police.uk online. Provide as much detail as possible: the date and time of the call, the number it came from (though it may be spoofed), and exactly what the scammer asked you to do. If you received the call on your mobile and it included a text message or link, forward the SMS to 7726 (the NCSC's spam reporting service). Tell your bank exactly what happened, including the name of the 'safe account' you were asked to send money to. If you downloaded a file or software, report it to the National Cyber Security Centre at report@phishing.gov.uk with a description and any file details. You can also contact Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133 for support and advice. Police and banks will never ask you to report legitimate crimes via email, so always call the official number and treat unsolicited contact with extreme caution.
Frequently asked questions
Can I trust any police phone call?
Real police almost never call you out of the blue about urgent criminal matters. If you receive an unsolicited call claiming to be from police, it is far safer to hang up and call 101 or your bank using a number you find yourself. Genuine officers expect you to do this and won't be offended.
What happens if I've already sent money to the scammer?
Contact your bank immediately on the number on the back of your card—if the money was sent recently, they may be able to freeze it. Report the fraud to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 and get a crime reference number. The money is often unrecoverable, but reporting it quickly gives you the best chance and creates an official record.
Why do scammers say my National Insurance number has been 'frozen'?
Your National Insurance number cannot be frozen by anyone. This is a fear tactic designed to panic you into acting quickly without thinking. Real HMRC or DWP agents would send you an official letter, not call you, and they already have your National Insurance number on file.
How do I report a police impersonation scam?
Call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or report online at actionfraud.police.uk. If you received a text or link, forward the SMS to 7726. Tell your bank immediately using the number on your card. If you downloaded software, report it to the NCSC at report@phishing.gov.uk.