An increasing number of reports have been made to Dyfed-Powys Police about criminals impersonating police officers over the phone in a bid to trick victims into handing over cash and bank cards.

The force said fraudsters are using “clever tactics” to gain trust, including sharing personal details such as names and addresses that are easily obtained online.

In some cases, scammers have even told victims to dial 999 to confirm their identity – but remain on the line, meaning the victim is still speaking to the fraudster.

Rebecca Williams, fraud safeguarding officer for the force, said the criminals were “very convincing”.

"We encourage anyone who receives such a call to use an alternative phone such as a mobile, or contact a friend/family before trying to verify the call,” she said.

"If you have received a call like this or have been convinced to send money, please do not be embarrassed or ashamed to report it. These criminals use coercive and manipulative tactics to gain their victim’s trust.

"Dyfed Powys Police are here to support you, and we continue to support victims who have handed over tens of thousands of pounds to this scam already.”

Dyfed-Powys Police stressed that officers will never ask members of the public to withdraw cash, send money, hand over bank cards, or send a courier to collect valuables.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted is urged to report it to police.