Police alert after pensioner is conned out of £200,000 savings

She fell victim to conmen claiming to be working for bank fraud teams.

Police say the 75-year old thought she was speaking to employees of the Halifax fraud squad who said there had been fraudulent activity on her bank account.

In the last four months they repeatedly targeted her, saying she needed to follow their instructions to help catch people trying to steal her cash.

She was told to transfer money into a new account and to make cash withdrawals and have the money ready for collection at her home in the New Forest.

Detective Constable Dave Wheeler said: “The victim in this case is understandably very upset and shocked by what has happened to her.

“Often victims are left feeling embarrassed and ashamed that they have fallen for these scams but the fraudsters can be very convincing and will prey on those who they consider to be potentially vulnerable.

“We want to warn residents that these requests are not genuine and that no police officer or bank would operate in this manner.

“Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged not to give any details to the caller and report the matter to the police immediately.

“Any courier companies or taxi drivers that may have been asked to pick up such packages in the area are also urged to report this to police.

“If you have elderly relatives, friends or neighbours please make them aware of this scam and remind them not to give any details to unexpected callers.

“Remain alert and if you see them being approached by unexpected visitors please check who they are and ensure they are a legitimate caller.”