POLICE are warning residents to stay vigilant following an increase in scam calls using ‘spoofed’ phone numbers designed to appear genuine.

A spoofed number is when a caller deliberately disguises their real telephone number so that a different number appears on the recipient’s phone.

This can make it seem as though a call is coming from a trusted organisation, local business or even someone known to the victim, when it is actually from a fraudster.

Police say scammers use the technique to increase the likelihood that people will answer and trust the call.

They may impersonate organisations including banks, credit card providers, HMRC, delivery companies, utility providers, technical support services, or even the police.

Callers often claim there is an urgent issue that needs immediate attention and may try to pressure people into sharing personal information, revealing passwords or security codes, or making payments or money transfers.

Residents are being urged not to trust a caller simply because the number displayed appears familiar or legitimate.

Police advise people to be cautious of any unexpected calls requesting money or sensitive information, and to never disclose PIN numbers, passwords, two-factor authentication codes or financial details over the phone.

If in doubt, callers should hang up and contact the organisation directly using a trusted number.

The force is reminding the public that scammers often try to create panic and urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly.

Residents are urged to remain calm and take time to verify any suspicious contact before responding.

Anyone who believes they have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime is urged to report it immediately via the UK’s fraud reporting service at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Those who have shared financial details or lost money should also contact their bank’s fraud team on 159.