RESIDENTS are being warned a number of scam callers are pretending to police officers, in a bid to defraud elderly and vulnerable people.

Police in Redditch and Bromsgrove have said they have been made aware of a number of incidents.

Detective Inspector Emma Wright said: “Following a significant spike in courier fraud offences at the end of last year, we saw a marked drop in these cases; likely due to a number of arrests and also as a result of strong messages to advise the public on how to avoid these scams.

"Unfortunately, over the past few days in Worcestershire and Herefordshire we have started to see a re-emergence of offences, where suspects are contacting elderly, vulnerable people via the telephone, pretending to be from the police or their bank, in a bid to get them to divulge bank details or to hand over cash.

"It is particularly important that at the moment, where many elderly people may be self-isolating due to Coronavirus concerns, that we all remain vigilant to such frauds."

She added: “The message is simple – the police or your bank will never ask you to hand over or transfer cash or valuables. Any such request is a scam.

"Do not reveal any bank details, put down the phone and wait 10 minutes to ensure the line has disconnected. Following this report the matter to the police on 101 or via Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

“Please continue to share this message with elderly friends, neighbours and relatives, particularly at present, when they may be feeling isolated and could be particularly susceptible to scams.”