Warning over fake security calls in Fontwell, Woodgate and Walberton

A number of reports have come in from residents living in Fontwell, Woodgate and Walberton about the bogus security calls.

The telephone calls are from a withheld number and the caller claims to be an officer working for Chichester police.

He asks the home owners a series of security questions about their homes and outbuildings.

During these calls the caller also makes reference to possible faults on alarm systems.

PC Steve Self from Littlehampton neighbourhood police team said: “During the calls the man refers to himself as PC Pete Harrison or Pete Webster and tells the homeowners about potential faults on their alarm systems.

“We cannot be totally sure of the caller’s motives, but it appears he may be checking how vulnerable properties are in the area and the residents who live in them.

“Please do not give out personal information over the phone. Police officers do not make calls to members of the public of this nature and you can always ring 101 and check if a local officer has been trying to get in touch with you.”