State Crime Command's Cybercrime Squad are urging people to be vigilant about scam calls after seeing an increase in reported caller ID spoofing.
ID or web-based spoofing is where scammers use technology to make it appear their illegitimate call is originating from a legitimate phone number, such as a financial institution or government agency.
In recent months, detectives have been made aware of an increase of ID spoofing from scammers pretending to be from NSW Police Stations – specifically The Rocks, Burwood, Paddington, Redfern and Liverpool.
The caller will usually impersonate a NSW Police Officer and tell the person receiving the call they have an outstanding fine, before demanding payment to prevent further court action.
Commander of State Crime Command's Cybercrime Squad, Detective Superintendent Matt Craft, said the NSW Police will never call a member of the public for payment in order to avoid further police action.
"The best way to deal with these types of calls is to not engage or provide information, and to hang up," Det Supt Craft said.
"A police officer will always be willing to identify themselves and make themselves contactable at a police station. If you're concerned or want to verify the legitimacy of your call, we recommend contacting the station or Police Assistance Line directly on 131 444.
"Always remember that legitimate businesses, organisations or government departments will never call a customer seeking confidential information.
"Importantly, never give your personal details or credit information out over the phone, unless you are the one who made the call to a trusted number."
To find more information about scams in general or impersonation scams, or to find out ways to protect yourself, visit www.scamwatch.com.au
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
