'Your godson is in jail' scam alert after multiple reports of con artists cold calling people pretending to be police

Northumbria Police has issued a call for people to be cautious after a spate of incidents where calls have been made by con artists claiming to be officers.

By Fiona Thompson

Published 12th Jan 2021, 09:38 BST

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The force has issued the scam alert after it said a “flurry” of people were contacted by scammers purporting to be police.

In the space of a day, leading up to yesterday evening, Monday, January 11, detectives received five reports of the same scam.

It involved people receiving a cold-call from a man who claims to be from a different UK Police Force, telling them their godson is in police custody.

People have been warned by Northumbria Police to be cautious of a scam where callers pretend to be police officers.

People have been warned by Northumbria Police to be cautious of a scam where callers pretend to be police officers.

As part of the con, offenders try and dupe victims into revealing bank details such as passwords and disclose how much money they have in their bank.

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In previous cases victims who are often elderly are repeatedly contacted and pressured into handing over high-value items as well as their hard-earned cash.

A spokesperson for the force said: “The investigation remains ongoing at this time and officers are urging people to be extra cautious.

“These types of criminals can be extremely convincing and persistent and panic their victims into making quick decisions.

“Make sure if you are approached in this way, you not only hang up the phone, but make sure the line is clear before calling anyone else.

“Once you are satisfied the line is clear contact the Police immediately via 101.”

Police have also asked residents to speak to their families about the scam in the hope the message will also get through to all ages.

The spokesperson added: “Please take the time to talk to your loved ones about scams and help us reinforce the message that police will never ask anyone for bank details, to withdraw cash, or send us anything via a courier.”

Anyone who thinks they might have been a victim of fraud is asked to contact police via 101 or Action Fraud immediately by calling 0300 123 2040 Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm.

Those calling from abroad can call by using +44 300 123 2040.

Reports and information can also be sent on online at https://reporting.actionfraud.police.uk.

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