City of London Police is urging the public to be sure of who they are talking to following a spike in reports of calls from ‘spoofed’ phone numbers.
Criminals use ‘spoofing’ software to intentionally cover up their real caller ID and instead, mirror the phone number of a legitimate organisation. They do this to make it appear that calls or text messages are coming from a trusted organisation like the police, banks or government agencies.
These scam calls may be automated, or from a real person. Their main goal is to trick you into sharing personal information or to transfer money.
Protect yourself from fraudulent calls
Never share personal or financial information – including your name, address, bank details, email or phone number – unless you are absolutely certain who you are dealing with.
Legitimate banks and trusted organisations will never pressure you into making urgent financial decisions or ask you to confirm full banking details over the phone.
If something feels wrong, stop and verify: contact the organisation directly using a trusted phone number (such as the one on the back of your bank card).
Report a suspicious phone call
If you’ve lost money or have been hacked as a result of responding to a phishing message or scam call, you should report it to Report Fraud.
Visit www.reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
You should also report suspected scam calls by sending a text to 7726 with the word ‘Call’ and the caller’s number.
Learn how to protect yourself if you think you’ve shared personal information.
Coney Hall Village Residents' Association (CHVRA) 