Warning over fake-police scam calls

Police are warning the community of a scam where the caller claims to be from Craigieburn police station and makes demands for money.

Police received reports on Friday of calls from the number 9303 4433, which is the Craigieburn police station.

The calls are threatening in nature and the caller demands a sum of money from the victim, as well as asking to know their location.

The caller tells the victim that they are under investigation by Craigieburn Police on behalf of the ATO and if they make payment immediately the matter will be resolved.

Police said the calls were not from Craigieburn police station or any law enforcement agency, and there had been no breach of police phone lines.

Investigators believe the offenders are using programs that allow for a chosen number to be displayed when calling victims.

Police have received reports from across the state, not just in the Hume area.

Anyone who receives a call is asked to not pay the money and report the call to their local police station.

The scam follows a similar series of fraudulent calls over the past month where the caller claimed to be from Collingwood police station.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au