Police issue advice after bank scam on residents in Winchester and Fair Oak

One of these scam incidents involved a man from Winchester, who received a call from a man claiming to work for Met Police.

The caller said he was investigating the 77-year-old victim's bank for counterfeit currency and instructed the victim to withdraw money on Monday October 21.

The victim withdrew the money and gave £4,100 to the fraudster, who later visited his home.

Later, the victim was called again and asked to withdraw a further £2,000, however he became suspicious and called the police.

The cold-caller was described as black, of slim build, around 5ft 11ins tall and aged in his 20s or 30s.

Officers said they have also received similar reports of incidents, including another in Winchester and one in Fair Oak on Wednesday October 23.

On these occasions, the victims were called by someone claiming to be DC Simmonds from Hammersmith police station.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "This is a common scam in which often older or more vulnerable people are targeted.

"We would like to remind people that officers, banks or any other authority figure will never call in this way.

"If you do get a call from someone who claims you need to withdraw money from a bank, hang up and report it using a different phone if possible. It will be a scam.

"Make a note of the date and time of the call, and the number, if available – this information could help any future investigation.

"Never reveal your bank details or give personal information to people who cold call.

"If you know somebody who could be taken in by such a scam, please take the time to speak to them and give them our advice.

"You can make yourself aware of this type of scam and how to protect yourself against them by visiting the Action Fraud website: www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

"If you or someone you know falls victim to this type of offence, please report it immediately to police on 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress."