THREE incidences of suspected telephone fraud in Gloucestershire were reported in just one day last week, prompting police to issue a warning for members of the public to be vigilant.

Gloucestershire Police are asking people to be vigilant after three elderly people were targeted and one victim handed over a quantity of money during incidents reported to them on Friday, September 28.

On each occasion the victims were initially contacted by people stating they were from banks or claiming to be police officers from London or surrounding areas.

The victims were told that they had either been a victim of crime, or that they should withdraw money from their bank account for safekeeping.

Suspected fraudsters then repeatedly contacted the victims attempting to take possession of the money by stating that it was required as evidence or needed to be safeguarded.

In one of these incidents a quantity of money was handed over.

A police statement warned members of the public to be vigilant, saying : "In all three of the incidents, the victims were elderly.

"However, fraud can happen to anyone."

Additionally officers have released advice on how people can protect themselves against scams and fraud on Gloucestershire Constabulary website here: gloucestershire.police.uk/staying-safe/staying-safe-against-scams-or-fraud/

Anyone who believes that they may have been a victim of fraud should contact Action Fraud

actionfraud.police.uk/report-a-fraud-including-online-crime

If a crime is in progress then call 0300 123 2040 immediately.