Amazon impersonation fraud warning shared across Sussex
Sussex residents are being warned about fraudsters posing as Amazon, after victims lost more than £86,000 over nine days.
The alert has been shared on police pages across the county, alongside advice on recognising suspicious calls.
According to the warning, Report Fraud received 110 reports involving Amazon impersonation during the nine-day period. People aged 50 to 79 were the most affected, accounting for 60 per cent of reports.
The police posts remind residents to be cautious if callers ask for money, financial information or access to their devices.
“Remember that genuine service providers, banks and the police will never call asking you to transfer money, share personal financial details or hand over remote control of your computer, phone or other device,” the Sussex Police warning said.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged to hang up and contact the organisation directly using details they know are correct, such as those on its official website or app.
Residents are also warned that the number appearing on their screen cannot be relied upon to establish a caller’s identity.
“Don’t trust the Caller ID display on your phone – it’s not proof of ID,” the post urged.
Police advised that suspicious calls can be reported by texting 7726 with the word “Call” followed by the scam caller’s number.
Anyone who believes they have been a victim of fraud is urged to report it to Report Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040, or to contact police on 101.