POLICE in the Scottish Borders have issued advice to the public on how to check an officer's identity.
They say that if someone from Police Scotland contacts you, they will do so in person, by phone or by email.
This will depend on the circumstances surrounding why they need to contact you.
If one of their officers contacts you in person, they'll show you their police warrant card.
READ MORE: New 283-mile Great Tapestry Trail launched
This is proof of their identity and authority and you can verify this by dialling 101.
If one of their officers needs to speak to you on the phone or by email, they'll identify themselves clearly.
They will never:
ask you for your bank details or PIN
ask you to transfer funds to another account
ask you to hand over cash or bank cards to a courier
ask you to pay a fine or a fee to them or a third party over the phone or online
READ MORE: Tickets now available to see some of UK's top tribute acts
ask you for remote access to your computer, passwords or log on details over the phone or online
ask you to register personal details in an attachment they send or website they direct towards
ask you to 'assist' in an investigation by doing any of the above
communicate in an abusive, threatening or coercive manner
ask you to click on a hyperlink to participate in an investigation
Remember if you're unsure about whether the person you're dealing with is a genuine police officer – stop – and call Police Scotland on 101 to check their identity.
You should also contact 101 if you think you've been a victim of fraud.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here