RESIDENTS are being warned to be vigilant following reports of scam phone calls.

Cheshire Police said there have been several reports from residents over the past few weeks who have been targets of courier fraud.

Victims have been called by individuals pretending to be Cheshire Police officers.

They have told the victims that someone has been arrested for stealing their bank card and asked them to provide their details to confirm it was their card that was stolen.

The victims then passed these details to the scammer, who used them to withdraw money from their accounts.

Fraudsters have also been pretending to be bank officials, asking victims to withdraw cash, purchase goods, or provide bank cards and PIN numbers for collection by a courier.

The courier would then arrive to take the money, claiming it would be held in a secure place, which does not exist, with the scammer keeping the money themselves.

Detective sergeant Jacques, of the force's economic crime unit, said: "The fraudsters are extremely convincing and persistent and often target the elderly or vulnerable, resulting in the loss of thousands of pounds.

"It’s important to remember that police officers and bank officials will never ask you to withdraw money, purchase goods or hand over private banking details.

"Please help us to raise awareness by sharing this with your friends and family, especially if they are vulnerable or elderly."

Cheshire Police has issued crime prevention advice including being sceptical of callers, even those who claim to be officials, and never giving personal information, such as your date of birth or bank details, to unexpected callers.

They also reminded residents that the police or your bank would not unexpectedly call you and ask you to withdraw cash or move your money to another account, as a result of fraud or any other reason.

If a caller asks you to type your bank PIN number into your telephone handset, you should not do this, as fraudsters can use technology to identify the numbers.

You can opt out of many cold calls by registering for free with the Telephone Preference Service on 0845 070 0707.

If you have any information regarding these incidents, please use the reporting tools online or call 101.

Information can also be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.