PEOPLE have been warned to protect their financial details from telephone fraudsters.Police received reports from residents who had been contacted by someone posing as a representative from a phone company.

PEOPLE have been warned to protect their financial details from telephone fraudsters.

Police received reports from residents who had been contacted by someone posing as a representative from a phone company.

The caller, who targeted residents in Swaffham, said that the phone line would be cut off unless credit card details were given over the telephone.

Sgt Dave George said this was a scam, as phone companies usually send warning letters for any outstanding bills.

“We are advising residents to avoid confirming or offering any personal information over the telephone, especially financial details,” he said.

Norfolk police's advice is that fake calls often shared similar features:

Money is demanded up front to pay unexpected fees before a “prize” can be released;

People are asked to provide bank account, credit card or other sensitive personal information;

Pressure is applied for an immediate decision;

The receiver of the call is asked to keep the details secret.

A police spokesman said people should always be wary of any cold call asking for personal or financial details and should tell the caller they will ring them back once they have checked they are genuine.

Anyone with concerns about telephone scams should contact Norfolk police on 0845 456 4567.