A warning has been issued after a spate of telephone fraud has seen scammers pretend to be police and bank staff.

The first of the incidents saw an elderly woman living in a village near Canterbury called yesterday, by someone claiming to work for her bank.

The fraudster told her that her account had been compromised and she must go to her nearest branch to transfer money into another account.

When the woman arrived at the bank, staff contacted the police and the transaction was prevented.

But the victim later disclosed that she had transferred money out of her account on a previous occasion.

Another elderly woman in the Canterbury area was targeted yesterday, when she was called by a scammer claiming to be a London police officer.

She was asked to provide personal details but became suspicious and hung up.

"Don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning there's no shame in being deceived..."

Police are investigating the incidents, and are warning residents to be on guard against fraudulent callers.

Those with elderly or vulnerable relatives or neighbours are also asked to check they are aware of such fraud.

Inspector Guy Thompson, of Canterbury's Community Safety Unit, said: "I urge anyone contacted by someone claiming to be from their bank, or from the police, not to agree to transfer any money.

"Always get independent or legal advice if an offer or request involves money, or speak to family or friends before committing to anything.

"Don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning there's no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others."

In an instance where a suspicious caller is claiming to be a police officer, the public is advised to stop the call and ring 101 to check the alleged officer's identity.

It is recommended to wait five minutes before using your phone after such a call, as there have been cases of fraudsters keeping the line open after a victim has hung up.

For more information about fraud and advice on how to avoid becoming a victim visit the Kent Police website.(www.kent.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud.)

You can also visit the national Take Five campaign website.(www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk)