The calls appeared to be from a genuine West Midlands Police switchboard number

West Midlands Police has urged the public to be vigilant following reports of fraudulent calls from people claiming to be from the force.

The calls appeared to be from a genuine West Midlands Police switchboard number, 0121 626 5000, but police warned the people involved likely used caller ID spoofing.

The calls involved people claiming to be detectives from the force, a suspicious email link and fake officer names, collar numbers, log numbers and crime references.

Police have advised people to never give personal information in response to an incoming call, particularly if the caller is asking you to do something that will affect you financially, and to remember that police will never ask you to disclose your PIN number, card or bank details.

A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “An investigation is under way to identify who is responsible for making these calls.

“You can always ask a police officer for identification. All our officers have a collar number and a warrant card and if in any doubt, call 101 to check the details given to you are genuine.”

If you receive such a call end it immediately. Wait five minutes for the phone line to clear, or call from a different number and contact the police by dialling 101, or 999 in an emergency.