Fraudsters are phoning up their victims, pretending to be police officers, then advising them that they need to withdraw money from their account.
This has been happening in West Yorkshire, with one suspect stealing thousands of pounds from a victim in Crofton, Wakefield.
People are tricked into withdrawing the money, then the suspect calls them back to check the serial number on the notes - tells them they are fake and that they need to attend their address to collect the money.
The first offence happened on Monday, December 16 - on two occasions thousands was collected by thief from the same address.
The second offence happened in the Alverthorpe area on Tuesday 17 December when a second suspect stole thousands of pounds.
A 17-year-old male has been arrested and then released under investigation.
Enquiries are ongoing to locate the other suspects.
'Challenge anyone who comes without an appointment to your home'
Detective Inspector Phil Davis of Wakefield CID said: “Police officers would never ask you to withdraw money from a bank. If you received a visit from someone purporting to be a police officer, ask to see their identification card.
“All police officers whether in uniform or not carry identification. You can always phone 101 to check the officer’s credentials.
“We would ask residents to be vigilant, challenge anyone who comes without an appointment to your home.
“Please ensure this advice is passed onto elderly relatives they may care for and to look out for elderly neighbours. Please also report any suspicious incidents to the Police immediately.
“Fraud is a crime, if you have been a victim of fraud you should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.”
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