A widowed pensioner tricked into releasing her banking details on the phone has issued a warning to stop others falling for the "despicable" hoax.

The woman from Deal, aged 74, raised the alarm almost immediately and nothing was stolen from her accounts.

She was at home alone on Thursday afternoon when she was called by a man claiming he was phoning on behalf of her banks.

He told her it was possible she was owed money after overpaying for charges and seemed kind and understanding.

To verify the conversation he put her though to a colleague he named as Neil Johnson, who gave an assurance that the phone call was genuine.

The pensioner’s daughter spoke to the Mercury, but did not want to be named for fear of the mother being identified.

She said: "These callers were calculated and terrible people. They gained her confidence and she was devastated when she realised afterwards that she had been tricked.

"My mother gave out her address, so is now worried about her safety and wants extra locks on her doors. This call has knocked her confidence back.

"She does not want anyone else to get caught by these men and is now embarrassed that she gave them so much information."

Police media spokesman Jon Green said it was despicable how an elderly lady had been targeted in this manner.

He added: "But this will hopefully serve as a reminder to other people not to divulge any personal or bank details to strangers. Beware of anyone who phones you and asks for bank details and NEVER divulge PIN numbers to other people.

"If you are worried about a caller or they are demanding information on the phone ask them to put it in writing and send it in the post. Most genuine callers will not mind doing this. If you believe anyone is trying to obtain personal details fraudulently contact Kent Police."