FCA / WhatsApp Impersonation Scam & Mobile Phone Upgrade / Free phone or iPad Scam

FCA / WhatsApp Impersonation Scam & Mobile Phone Upgrade / Free phone or iPad Scam

FCA / WhatsApp Impersonation Scam

We are seeing reports of criminals contacting victims through WhatsApp, pretending to be from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

They often use video calls

The caller may display the FCA logo as their profile picture to look genuine

This makes the scam feel more real and convincing

Stay safe:

The FCA, police and banks will NEVER ask you for personal information or ask you to transfer money

Do not trust logos, video calls, or official-looking profiles

Hang up and call your bank on 159 to check for any suspicious transactions

Update your password and set up up 2 Step Verification

Mobile Phone Upgrade / Free iPad Scam

Criminals are pretending to be mobile phone providers offering:

A free upgrade

A free iPad or device

How the scam works:

They contact you to say you are entitled to a free upgrade and just need your details to confirm that it is you.

They send you an item – but it is not what was promised

They ask you to return it or arrange a courier collection

The item is then stolen and sold on, leaving you stuck paying the bill

Stay safe:

Contact your provider directly using a trusted number before agreeing to any offers

Be wary of unexpected upgrade offers

Contact your bank on 159 to check for any suspicious transactions

Update your password and set up up 2 Step Verification

📞 Need Advice?

Dorset Police offer a 24/7 fraud advice service:

👉 Ask Damian – 01202 144688

If you receive a suspicious WhatsApp, phone call, text, or email, or are concerned about any other type of fraud call Ask Damian for immediate advice and a text message with the advice

If you have been a victim of fraud contact Report Fraud on their website UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud or call 0300 123 2040

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Damian Cranny
(Dorset Police, Fraud Protect Officer, Dorset)