Someone posing as an official or relative: warning signs and what to do
What to do
Police, courts and customs do not settle cases or release parcels over the phone for money. Hang up and call the office or relative yourself on a number you already know.
Warning signs
- Threatens a case, warrant or arrest.
- Claims to be police, army, customs or another authority.
- Says a parcel or gift is held and needs a fee.
- Claims an emergency and urgently needs money, possibly from a "new number".
- Presents itself as a circular or notice from a regulator. Check it on the regulator's own website before acting on it.
How this scam has played out
Fake circulars in a regulator's name
On 30 September 2026 IDRA, the insurance regulator, warned that two fake circulars using its name, logo and identity were circulating on social media, and asked people to check any circular through its official channels. Regulators publish their real circulars and notices on their own websites.
Source: IDRA public notice (30 Sep 2026)
Received a message or offer like this? Check it before you pay.
Check it nowHelp and helplines
- National emergency 999
- Police Cyber Support for Women 01320-000888
- Visa check for Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (Ami Probashi, paid) 16768
This guide is a warning about a pattern; it does not accuse any particular person or organisation.