POLICE in Hampshire are warning residents of a spate of scams in which elderly and vulnerable people have lost large sums of money.

A number of elderly residents in the county have received calls from a man claiming to be a Metropolitan Police officer.

They were told someone was in custody for either cloning their card or withdrawing money from their account.

They were asked for personal details and told to hang up the phone and call their bank.

When the person has picked up the phone to call the bank, using the number on the rear of their bank card, there has been no dialling tone indicating that the caller hasn’t hung up the phone.

The majority of the victims then became suspicious. However, others continued to follow instructions from the fraudsters, and withdrew large sums of money from their accounts which were collected by a courier.

Other victims have been warned not to tell anyone or the investigation could be compromised and they may find themselves before the court for committing a criminal offence.

Detective Constable Graham Robson said: “Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged not to give any details to the caller and report the matter to the police immediately.

“Any courier companies or taxi drivers that may have been asked to pick up such packages in the area are also urged to report this to police.

“We are aware of incidents occurring in Aldershot but we believe elderly and vulnerable people across the country are also being targeted.

“If you have elderly relatives, friends or neighbours please make them aware of this scam and remind them not to give any details to unexpected callers. Remain alert and, if you see them being approached by unexpected visitors, please check who they are and ensure they are legitimate callers.”

People are being reminded never to give personal banking data out over the phone and if someone comes to your door claiming to be a police officer or staff member, always ask for identification and make a note of their identification number.

Ask them to wait while you verify their identity. Close the door and call 101.