Cold callers have been trying to con people in Brighton and Hove into buying non-existent advertising in police publications.
Sussex Police said that it was a scam, adding: “Cold calling tactics are not employed by police forces in Britain either internally or via external agencies.
“Sussex Police does not accept paid advertisements for any of its publications.”
Chief Superintendent Chris Ambler said: “If you are contacted by a cold caller over the phone or via email who asks for personal or financial details, treat them with suspicion.
“Do not part with any money without verifying the caller is who they say they are and you have seen a previous publication.”
The callers offered to sell advertising or editorial space.
Bogus callers or fake police can be reported to Sussex Police on 0845 6070999.