Kent residents have lost tens of thousands of pounds this week alone to bank and police impersonation scams, prompting an urgent warning to stay vigilant.
These criminals are calling residents pretending to be from a bank, fraud department, or the police, claiming their bank account has been compromised, their card needs replacing, or even that a family member has been arrested. Victims may be told to transfer money, buy gold, hand over their bank card, cash or valuables to a courier, or withdraw funds for “safekeeping”.
These are scams. Your bank or the police will never ask you to transfer money to a safe account, buy gold, hand over your card, cash or valuables, or send someone to collect them.
If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately and ensure the line is disconnected before contacting your bank directly using 159. Never use phone numbers provided by the caller.
Report to Kent Police and receive advice from the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.
⚠️ Doorstep criminals were active this week in Thanet offering to clear out residents’ gutters.
🚫 Do NOT engage with cold callers. Legitimate traders don’t turn up uninvited.
📞 If someone comes to your door or you see suspicious people going door to door, report it:
➡️ CrimeStoppers (100% anonymous): 0800 555 111 or online.
➡️ If they refuse to leave or act aggressively, call 999.
➡️ For advice: Citizens Advice: 0808 223 1133
✅ Need work done? Use a safe local traders from KCC Trading Standards Checked.
📣 Please warn vulnerable friends, neighbours and family.