Fake Police Scams
Imposters posing as police who claim your identity or accounts are compromised and demand action.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
Fake police scams impersonate officers, claiming your identity has been used in a crime or your accounts are compromised, and instruct you to move money to a 'safe account', withdraw cash, or buy gift cards to 'help the investigation'.
How it works
A caller claiming to be police or a fraud investigator says you're a victim or suspect, and that you must cooperate secretly. They build fear and authority, then direct you to move money or hand it to a 'courier'.
Common red flags
- Police asking you to move money to a 'safe account'
- Instruction to keep it secret and not contact your bank in branch
- A 'courier' sent to collect cash or cards
- Pressure and threats of arrest
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
This is Detective [name]. Your account is part of a fraud case. Move your funds to this safe account immediately.
Payment methods used
- Bank transfer to 'safe account'
- Cash to couriers
- Gift cards
- Crypto
Who is usually targeted
- Older adults
- Anyone fearing legal trouble
What to do immediately
- Hang up — police do not ask you to move money or buy gift cards
- Call police and your bank using official numbers (from a different phone if possible)
- Report the scam
Evidence to preserve
- Caller details
- Any documents or 'badge' photos
- Payment demands
Where to report it
- Action Fraud (UK) — UK national fraud & cybercrime reporting centre
- FTC ReportFraud (US) — US Federal Trade Commission fraud reports
- FBI IC3 (US) — US Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Scamwatch (Australia) — Australian competition & consumer reporting
- Your bank's fraud line — Use the number on the back of your card or in your banking app — never a number the caller gives you
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Frequently asked questions
Would real police ever ask me to move money?
A real bank, police officer, court, tax agency, or government department should not pressure you to move money into a “safe account.” Treat this as a critical warning sign and contact your bank using the official number on your card or banking app.