Sussex Police have launched an appeal to identify a man after a suspected fraudster posed as a police detective to obtain jewellery from a resident in Crawley.
The incident happened in the Tilgate area at around 3pm on Wednesday 21 October, when a man visited a property claiming to be from "Hammersmith Police".
The victim had earlier received a series of fraudulent telephone calls before the man arrived to collect jewellery.
Investigators believe other residents in Sussex may also have received similar calls that afternoon.
Police have now released images of a man they wish to identify in connection with the investigation and are urging anyone who recognises him to come forward.
Officers say the incident is part of a wider concern involving criminals impersonating trusted organisations, including police forces, banks and government agencies.
Fraudsters often contact victims by telephone or text message, attempting to convince them they are speaking to someone in authority.
The aim is usually to obtain personal or financial information, persuade victims to transfer money or convince them to hand over valuable possessions.
Sussex Police are reminding residents that genuine officers will never unexpectedly telephone someone and ask them to provide sensitive banking information or withdraw money as part of an investigation.
They will also never ask members of the public to purchase expensive items or hand over jewellery to assist with police enquiries.
How to protect yourself from police impersonation scams
Police have issued the following advice to help residents avoid becoming victims:
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Never give personal information, banking details or passwords to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
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Do not withdraw cash, purchase expensive goods or hand over valuables to anyone claiming to be a police officer.
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Be suspicious of unexpected calls claiming your money or possessions are needed for a police investigation.
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If you are unsure whether a caller is genuine, end the call and independently verify their identity using an official contact number.
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Report suspicious calls to police, particularly if someone has attempted to obtain money or personal information.
Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who received suspicious telephone calls on 21 October or who may have information about the man pictured in the police appeal.
Anyone who recognises him or has information about the incident is asked to contact Sussex Police, quoting serial 1043 of 21/10.
Information can be reported through the Sussex Police website.
In an emergency, always call 999.
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