Four Suffolk residents targeted by police impersonation scam in five days

Why it matters: Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to steal money from Ipswich residents, using genuine police officer names and collar numbers to appear legitimate.

What's happening: Between 02 and 06 January, Suffolk Constabulary received at least four reports of residents being contacted by people claiming to be police officers warning about suspicious bank account activity.

How it works: The scammers:

• Claim to be Suffolk police officers

• Use real officer names and collar numbers

• Report supposed fraudulent activity on victims' accounts

• Ask victims to contact police to verify their details

What they're saying: Detective Sergeant Jamie Adams from Suffolk Constabulary's Fraud Assessment Unit said: "Police would never call you and ask you to withdraw money to be collected by an officer nor would they ask you to transfer money into a different bank account."

Red flags: A genuine police officer will never:

• Ask for bank details or PINs

• Request money transfers

• Ask for cash or cards to be handed to couriers

• Demand payment of fines over the phone

• Request computer passwords or login details

• Ask you to register personal details through websites or attachments

• Ask for help with investigations involving money

• State you are committing a crime by not complying

• Communicate in an abusive or threatening manner

How to stay safe: If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from the police:

• Hang up

• Use a different phone line to contact Suffolk police to verify the officer's details

• Never transfer money or share banking information

The bottom line: Police are urging residents to be vigilant and to help protect elderly or vulnerable neighbours by making them aware of these scam calls.