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Scam callers are faking police phone numbers: what to do if the police 'call' you

Criminals can make a call look as if it comes from your local police force. Report Fraud says reports are rising, and explains how to stay in control of the call.

By The KTech team · Published 29 October 2026

What happened

Report Fraud, the national reporting service run by the City of London Police, issued an alert on 15 October 2026 titled Police forces being impersonated in scam calls using 'spoofed' phone numbers. If you remember Action Fraud, Report Fraud is the service that now takes those reports.

The alert says more people have reported calls from someone claiming to be from a police force, in areas right across the country. In each case the caller is a criminal using software to copy a genuine phone number, so the caller ID looks convincing.

A common story is that you are helping with an investigation, which is then used to coax out personal or financial details. Report Fraud adds that these calls may be automated, may use AI, or may be a real person.

Its advice is plain. Genuine police, banks and other service providers will never call asking you to move money, share financial details or hand over remote control of your computer. If you feel pressured, end the call and ring back on a number you already trust, such as the one on your bank card or a utility bill. You can reach your bank on 159 or the police on 101.

Suspicious calls can be reported by texting the word Call, followed by the caller's number, to 7726. If you have lost money or been hacked, report it to Report Fraud.

What this means for South Hams homes and businesses

  • The number on the screen proves nothing. Hang up, wait a moment, and call back using a number you found yourself.
  • Nobody legitimate will mind you checking. Pressure and urgency are the warning signs.
  • Never let a caller take over your computer or phone, however official they sound.
  • Tell older relatives and neighbours. A two-minute chat can stop a loss.
  • If you have already shared details or let someone in, contact your bank straight away and then get in touch with us for help securing your devices and accounts.

Source: Report Fraud, Report Fraud alert: Police forces being impersonated in scam calls using 'spoofed' phone numbers, published 15 October 2026. Accessed 29 October 2026.

This is our own summary. For the full detail, please read the source above.

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