Adur and Worthing Police Issue Warning Over New Phone Scam

Adur and Worthing Police have issued a warning about a new phone scam involving fraudsters impersonating officers to obtain personal and financial information. The public is urged to remain vigilant.

Police reported two incidents where scammers posed as Worthing officers, claiming to investigate fraudulent activity. In one instance, the fraudsters alleged that a victim’s bank card had been cloned and used in a local supermarket, requesting the victim’s bank details to “prevent further loss.” Another victim was asked to withdraw over £5,000 to verify banknotes as part of a counterfeit investigation. Thankfully, no personal information or money was handed over in either case.

Authorities emphasised that Sussex Police would never ask for bank details or request money withdrawals over the phone. Both victims, aged over 80, have been visited by PCSOs for safeguarding advice under the OP Signature scheme. The public is encouraged to inform elderly relatives about the scam and to visit Sussex Police’s website for more advice on avoiding fraud.