Fraudsters Spoof Official Police Commissioner’s Number to Steal Over £30,000
In a sophisticated and "despicable" string of scams, fraudsters have managed to hijack the digital identity of the Leicestershire Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC). Since the start of 2026, victims have been defrauded of more than £30,000 by criminals posing as law enforcement or HMRC officials.
Leicestershire Police issued an urgent public warning today after receiving six reports of residents being targeted via the official OPCC phone number: 0116 229 8980.
The criminals are utilising specialist software to perform "number spoofing." This technology allows an unrelated mobile or internet-based line to appear on a victim's caller ID as a legitimate, trusted organisation.
By hiding behind a "shield of trust," scammers use high-pressure tactics to manipulate their targets. Claiming the victim is involved in illegal activity. Insisting the victim's bank account has been compromised and their money is no longer safe. Persuading the victim to transfer funds to a "safe account" or purchase high-value gift cards.
In one devastating case reported on Monday, February 16, a victim purchased £6,100 worth of gift cards before realising the call was a sham.
The Economic Crime Unit (ECU) is currently investigating the communication data to track down the suspects, but officials stress that public awareness is the best line of defense.
"I am absolutely dismayed that the people of Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland are being targeted by such calculated and despicable fraudsters, hiding behind institutions of trust," said Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews. "Neither my office nor any professional working on my behalf would ever call to ask you to withdraw money or purchase gift cards."
Nicole McIntyre of the ECU added that while the number on the screen is real, the people on the other end are not. "These incidents are in no way connected to anyone working in the OPCC," she clarified.
Authorities are urging the public to remember that police, banks, and government agencies will never request money or the purchase of gift cards. Ask for your bank account passwords or PIN. Instruct you to carry out an "urgent" financial transaction over the phone.
If you receive a suspicious call from a number you recognise, get the caller's details. Do not stay on the line. Fraudsters can sometimes "hold" a landline open even after you hang up. Waiting ensures the line is clear.
Use a different phone if possible to call the organisation back using a verified number (like the one on the back of your bank card or 101 for police).
If you believe you have been a victim of this or any other fraud, report it immediately to Report Fraud at
https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/
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