POLICE are warning people to be aware of fake charity collectors after a bogus fancy dress wearing conman was seen claiming to be accepting cash for good causes.
In their alert, officers from Thames Valley Police said they had launched a fraud investigation after someone has been seen going around in a number of costumes and a collection bucket, saying they were raising funds for a cancer charity.
They say the rogue may have collected thousands of pounds, but not passed any of it on to a good cause.
Now, they want people to be aware that genuine collectors will have visible identification which they will allow people to verify with the organisation they claim to represent. They also say that most charities require collectors to wear branded T-shirts, tabards or jackets.
Those undertaking a collection in a town centre or on a public road will have a permit from the relevant council, while if they are in a store, pub or club, they will have had permission from the company or the manager.
And the collection tin, bucket or pot should be sealed. The collector must stand still and they cannot approach people or obstruct movement of others.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “If you are approached by a charity collector, ask to see their ID card to verify the organisation they are from. If you have doubts you can also check their identity by calling the company they are claiming to be from. Get the phone number by going on line or from your local directory – don’t use any telephone numbers provided by the collector as they may be bogus.
“If you suspect that you have been approached by a bogus collector please report the incident on line or by phoning 101.
“If you don’t want to speak directly to police you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously and free of charge on 0800 555 111. It is an independent charity, no personal details will be asked for, calls are not recorded or traced and you would not have to go to court.”
