20/04/10…Suspicious phone call warning – South Oxfordshire

POLICE officers in the Thame and Watlington area are warning people not to release personal or sensitive information over the phone after a woman received a suspicious telephone call at home last night (19/4).

At 7pm a man claiming to be from Neighbourhood Watch phoned and introduced himself. He asked her if she knew about the scheme and then asked her age and details about her home security. The woman did not give out any information as she suspected it was a fraudulent call, and reported the call to police.

Neighbourhood Specialist Officer, PC Ian Kent, said: “Neighbourhood Watch would not call you and ask for sensitive information.

“If you do receive a similar call, do not give out sensitive information like this, particularly over the phone as you cannot verify the caller?s identity.

“If you are in doubt, end the conversation; try using 1471 to get the caller?s number and report the call to the police.?

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this caller or have any information or concerns about it should call 0845 8 505 505.

If you don?t want to speak to police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.