RESIDENTS are being urged to stay vigilant after Wiltshire Police issued a warning about a new phone scam in which fraudsters pose as serving officers.

The scam, which has been reported by several members of the public, involves victims receiving a call from someone claiming to be a police officer.

The caller tells them that a package addressed to them has been seized as part of an ongoing investigation.

To make the deception appear credible, the fraudster provides a fake crime reference number and warns the victim to expect a follow-up call from their bank.

Shortly afterwards, a second call is made by someone pretending to represent the victim’s bank.

During this conversation, the victim is asked to provide access to their bank account or share sensitive financial information.

Police say they became aware of the scam after receiving multiple calls from residents checking whether the “officer” who had contacted them was genuine.

Officers are reminding the public that they can verify the identity of any police officer by calling 101, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged not to share personal or financial information.

Those targeted are asked to report the incident to their police, providing as much detail as possible about the caller and the circumstances.

Incidents should also be reported to Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.

Anyone who has been contacted by someone claiming to be from their bank – or who has shared financial details – should contact their bank immediately to ensure their account is secure.

Police are urging residents to remain cautious and to warn elderly or vulnerable relatives who may be particularly at risk.