A PENSIONER has been scammed by fraudsters posing as police officers.

Hampshire Police have received multiple reports of tricksters posing as officers and cold-calling victims.

One victim was called by a man claiming to work for Romford Essex Police.

The fraudster said someone was in custody and the victim's cards had been stolen.

The victim was told not to speak to anyone and that they were under caution.

He was then urged to go to the bank and withdraw money and wait for a courier who would collect the money.

The victim handed over a large quantity of cash to the courier who later called at his address.

Police are warning that this is a common scam where older and vulnerable people are targeted.

They remind people that officers, banks or any other authority figure will never call in this way.

PS Richard Knight spokesperson said: "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 or by calling 03001232040."

Anyone who has been a victim to this type of offence is urged to call police on 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.

Last month police issued warning after multiple residents in Winchester and Fair Oak were scammed for money by fake police officers.

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.