Phone scam warning issued after woman duped out of thousands

POLICE in Midlothian are urging the public to remain vigilant after an elderly woman fell victim to a telephone fraud.

Police say you should never agree to pay cash to the caller, no matter how convincing they are. File picture

The 68-year-old received a call at her home in Mayfield on Wednesday 17th February from a male claiming she was owed money back from a foreign investment but was required to transfer cash to release the funds.

After the victim transferred a four-figure sum on two occasions that day, staff at her local bank became suspicious and reported the matter to Action Fraud.

DOWNLOAD THE EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS APP ON ITUNES OR GOOGLE PLAY

Local officers are now progressing this inquiry and are now urging others to be wary of this approach, as well as similar scams.

Sergeant Stuart Aitchison from Dalkeith Police Station said: “Thankfully, the victim’s bank intervened before any further funds were transferred out of her account and we are now investigating to identify whoever was responsible for this fraud.

“I would advise anyone who receives a call like this not to provide any personal details or agree to pay in cash to the caller, no matter how convincing they seem.

“If you would like any more information on safeguarding yourself against fraudsters then please contact Action Fraud or visit the Police Scotland website at www.scotland.police.uk.”