Fake police & shock calls
By the Scampilot team · Last updated
A caller posing as a police officer or prosecutor claims a relative caused a fatal accident and needs "bail", or that a burglary ring is operating in your street and your money is no longer safe at home or in the bank. You are told to hand cash and valuables to a "plain-clothes colleague". The caller ID is often spoofed to show 110 - which the real police never call from, and they never collect money.
Warning signs
- The display shows 110 or a police number - real police never call out from 110.
- A horror story (deadly accident, burglary ring) plus immediate demand for cash or jewellery.
- You must keep the call secret and stay on the line, even on the way to the bank.
- A "plain-clothes officer" or courier will pick up money or valuables at your door.
Example
This is the criminal police. Your daughter caused a fatal accident and will be jailed unless bail is deposited today. Do not tell anyone. A plain-clothes colleague will collect the money at your door.
Made-up example - not a real message.
How to protect yourself
- 01Hang up, then call 110 yourself (dial it manually) and ask whether the case is real.
- 02Police and prosecutors never demand bail by phone and never collect cash or valuables.
- 03Call the allegedly involved relative on their known number before doing anything.
Already caught out?
- 01Call the real police on 110 immediately - handovers are sometimes intercepted.
- 02If you withdrew or transferred money, inform your bank at once.
- 03Note every detail (voices, courier description, numbers) for the investigators.
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