A 93-year-old woman has been conned out of her savings by a scammer.

On January 22, the Tunbridge Wells pensioner was called by a man claiming to be a Met Police detective based in Hammersmith.

He warned the elderly woman money had been stolen from her bank accounts and told her to withdraw cash as part of their investigation.

Three days later, on January 25, a person claiming to be from the "Rapid Response Fraud Unit" arrived at her door and took £1,000 in cash.

Kent Police was informed of the scam on January 29 and enquiries are ongoing.

Insp Chris Mayers said: "A police force will never ask a member of the public for their bank details, or money, over the phone.

"If you receive one of these calls end it immediately and wait at least five minutes before using your telephone in order to clear your line from the scammer.

"Unfortunately those who are targeted are often the most vulnerable, such as elderly people or victims with learning difficulties.

"It is important people know how to spot the signs of a fraudulent phone call so their finances are not put at risk and I would encourage friends, neighbours and family members to us help protect those who may be particularly at risk from these types of scams."

Kent Police issued five tips to prevent fraud.

• Never hand over any money, or other items, to a courier after receiving this type of call.

• If you are not confident a person claiming to be a police officer is genuine, ask to take their details and then end the call.

• Wait for at least five minutes for the call to clear and then contact 101, or 999 in an emergency. A call handler will be able to verify whether your caller was genuine.

• Alternatively, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. You can also report suspicious activity online by visiting: http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud

• The matter can also be reported to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.