Derbyshire: Fake PC scam warning issued by police

Scam calls from people pretending to be police officers have been reported across the county, Derbyshire Police has said.

The force said fraudsters had been calling people using names such as DC John Marston, DC James Madison, DC Mark Reilly or DC Martin Johnston in order to access cash.

The scammers claimed they were investigating an "unauthorised use of the person's bank card" and advise victims to keep the call secret.

Police have urged anyone who receives a call like this to contact officers immediately.

The force said these types of calls were linked to courier fraud, in which victims are encouraged to withdraw cash and give the money or bank cards to a courier.

In some cases, the victim has been told to withdraw this in Euros from a currency exchange kiosk.

Police advice

Police said no force in the country would contact someone asking for banking information or to withdraw money to aid an investigation.

A spokesperson said: "Criminals will often target areas where they know elderly or vulnerable people live, so please share this message with your friends, family and anyone who may benefit from this advice.

"If you or someone you know receives a call of this nature, please report it to us as soon as possible so we can identify the areas being targeted to alert local banks and communities.

"If you're using the same phone you received the scam call on, please wait five minutes to hear a dial tone before calling us or your bank via the number on the back of your card."