Police Scotland say they have seen a recent space of incidents in the area where criminals are impersonating police officers and in turn, victims are facing financial loses in the region of four and five figure sums of cash.
The scams have seen people receive a call from someone claiming to be a police officer alerting them to fraudulent activity on their account. In the phone call, personal questions are asked for security reasons.
In some cases the victim is instructed to visit their bank to withdraw money, normally foreign currency, to pass on to a third person.
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Detective Inspector Jonny MacKinnon said: “These criminals can be very convincing. They are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police and we would urge people to be on their guard.
“Police officers will never phone members of the public to alert them to fraudulent activity on their account or ask you to transfer or withdraw money.
“If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from your bank or financial institution, and you are in any doubt at all, hang up and contact the bank using the phone number on the back of your card or official paperwork. If the caller is genuine, they will understand your hesitation, never feel pressured into handing over details or withdrawing money.
“We would encourage people to share this information with any elderly relatives or neighbours to ensure they are aware of these scams and how they can take precautions to avoid becoming a victim.”
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Anyone who thinks they may have fallen victim to this scam is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.
Have you been the victim of a financial scam? Contact news@glasgowtimes.co.uk
