MOTORISTS are being warned of fraudsters handing out fake fines.

Hampshire Constabulary’s Action Fraud team has received a number of reports across Basingstoke and Deane of people posing as police officers.

The fraudsters will approach motorists in car parks claiming that they have parked illegally or broken a speed limit and a photo has been taken of their vehicle for ‘evidence’.

Victims will then be told they face a substantial penalty fine unless they pay a smaller upfront fee immediately.

Those who opt for paying the smaller penalty will be directed to a parking meter and asked to enter their card and PIN. These parking meters have been tampered with by the fraudster in order to retain the card.

If people believe they have been a victim of fraud, they should contact the Action Fraud team by visiting actionfraud.police.uk.