Staffordshire Police are asking people to be aware of dubious phone calls from individuals claiming to be from a financial institution or the police.  

This may involve someone asking for a PIN or a bank transfer.  

On Friday 6 March, a person in Stafford was tricked into buying £2,000 worth of gift cards and then transferring the codes so they could be used.  

The person received two phone calls, one claiming to be from Staffordshire Police and the other the Metropolitan Police.  

Fraudsters can use apps to make it appear that they are ringing from a legitimate organisation. 

If you receive a phone call which you find suspicious, it is important to look out for the following signs: 

• They ask for your bank card PIN or passwords 
• They ask you to withdraw cash to then post it or drop it off at a specific location 
• Rather than paying for something directly, they ask you to pay for the equivalent amount in vouchers or gift cards for them to have 
• They ask you to keep the transaction secret 

Detective Sergeant Garry Jackson, from the economic crime unit, said: "No bank, government department or police force will ask for bank details or cash to be transferred in secret or purchase items like gift cards on their behalf.  

"These fraudsters often target the vulnerable and the elderly and so we need everyone to reinforce this message with relatives and elderly and vulnerable friends and neighbours.  

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"Scams like this can be very elaborate, very convincing and cruel.  

"If you think someone is trying to scam you, tell someone straight away.  

"Don't be pressured.  

"Give yourself time to stop and think. 

"If you receive a call and it feels suspicious, hang up immediately. You should report fraud or attempted fraud immediately to Report Fraud or wait 10 minutes to ensure the phone has disconnected or use another phone and call either 0300 123 2040 or 101."