A SCAMMER pretending to be a police officer cheated an elderly woman out of £20,000.

Police are urging vigilance after the Moreton-in-Marsh woman received a call yesterday from a man claiming to be an officer and saying her bank account had been compromised.

She was told she needed to transfer the money to another account which would be opened on the victim’s behalf.

The fraudster sent couriers collect the money and when they arrived the victim handed over more than £20,000 in cash, which she had withdrawn from from her bank in a panic.

Three others were also contacted in Cheltenham but recognised the call as a scam and didn’t hand over any money.

Detective Sergeant Michael Prentice, of the Force Intelligence Bureau, said: "These are heartless crimes which target the most vulnerable and trusting members of our society, defrauding them of their life savings.

"Please be aware that banks and police officers will never ask for your PIN or account details over the phone and never ask you to transfer money to another account.

"If you get a call like this hang up and phone the police and your bank immediately using a different phone, in case the fraudster is still on the line. Do not be pressured into giving any details or handing over any money.

"Please share this information with family, friends and neighbours who you think might be vulnerable to this kind of offence."

Anyone with information about courier fraud, or who sees any suspicious activity, is asked to call Gloucestershire Constabulary on 101.