Alert issued after a spike in '˜phantom debt' calls

Warning residents to be aware of the scam, the crime prevention alert urged people to ‘make vigorous checks if you ever get a cold call’.

‘Phantom debt’ calls are made by fraudsters claiming to be a debt collector or bailiff, and working for a court or business to recover a nonexistent debt.

They ask for payment, sometimes by bank transfer, and threaten to visit homes or workplaces – or even that the victim will be arrested – if they are refused.

Suspicious calls can be reported to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting actionfraud.police.uk