The Growing Threat: Fake Police Calls Are More Common Than Ever

Recently, especially in Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, there's been a surge in scam calls where criminals pretend to be police officers. Imagine receiving a phone call where a stern voice says, 'We need to check your involvement in a case,' or 'Come to the police station immediately.' These calls often use urgent language and intimidating tones designed to make victims panic. For example, one person shared that the caller demanded their bank account information and threatened with arrest if they didn't cooperate. Such tactics are very convincing, exploiting our trust in police authority. The truth, however, is that genuine police officers follow strict protocols—they don’t threaten or ask for money over the phone. Recognizing these scams can save you from unnecessary fear and danger, because understanding the difference between real police and scam calls is your best protection.

Crucial Steps to Protect Yourself from Scary Phone Calls

When you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from police, it’s vital to stay calm and think clearly. Do not share any personal information like your bank details, and never send money or agree to meet someone without verifying first. For example, if the caller says, 'Send us money now or you’ll be arrested,' remember that real police never act like this over the phone. Instead, hang up immediately and tell a trusted adult—such as a parent, teacher, or guardian—so they can help you confirm if it’s real. You can also verify by calling your local police station directly, using a number you look up yourself, rather than one provided by the caller. Just like companies such as Google only contact you through official channels, police communication follows strict, transparent procedures. Knowing these simple safety rules can be your strongest shield, protecting you from falling victim to scammers who count on fear and confusion.

Why Do Scammers Fake Police, and How to Recognize Their Tricks