Vulnerable people scammed out of thousands by criminals impersonating police officers in East Dunbartonshire

Vulnerable people have been scammed out of four and five figure sums of money by criminals impersonating police officers in East Dunbartonshire.

Police issued a warning after they received reports from several older residents in the area who were defrauded out of thousands by scammers calling victims at home claiming to be officers.

The scammers claim to have concerns regarding the fraudulent use of their victims’ bank card.

Victims are then asked to attend a bank or post office and withdraw money to assist with a police investigation which is later collected at the victim’s home by a person impersonating a plain-clothed police officer.

The force reminded the public that police will never attend your home to collect cash or bank cards.

Police advised members of the public to call the number on their bank card to verify whether or not they are being contacted legitimately.

Officers are urging anyone who receives a call of this nature to contact them immediately.

Local Area Commander for East Dunbartonshire, chief inspector Aidan Higgins said: “I would like to reassure everyone that extensive enquiries are being carried out by a team of specialist officers to identify those responsible.

“I would like everyone to be aware of this scam and to be vigilant. I would ask anyone with elderly relatives or neighbours to make them aware of this fraud as soon as possible.

“Police officers or your bank will never ask you to transfer money to another account or withdraw money from your account. They will never ask you to disclose personal financial information.

“Police or bank officials will never telephone you and ask you to withdraw funds to be collected later from you at home.

“These callous criminals’ prey on vulnerable people in our communities. They go to great lengths to appear legitimate, including having your personal details.

“The victims are persuaded to believe that they are assisting with a police investigation and are extremely upset and distressed when they find out they have been the victim of fraud.

“If you receive a call of this nature, do not engage with the caller and hang up. It is a scam. If you’re unsure, take a few moments to think. If you can, note the callers telephone number, hang up and contact police on 101.”