POLICE investigating a scam which sees people called by a person pretending to be a police officer and telling them to withdraw money from their bank have arrested a 16-year-old boy.

The scam sees victims, usually elderly or vulnerable, receive a telephone call by a person claiming to be an officer and telling them that their bank has been compromised.

The caller then requests the person go to the bank and withdraw a large sum of money, which will be collected by a courier in a taxi.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: "We have received reports of attempts being made to con people in Petersfield and Portsmouth in recent weeks and months.

"On Tuesday, we were called after a further attempt to scam a victim in their 70s in Petersfield.

"Officers attended and a 16-year-old boy from London was arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation.

"He has been released under investigation and enquiries are ongoing.

"We want to remind everyone that police officers will never ask you to withdraw money from your bank account and hand it over to them.

"Neither will your bank.

"Anyone making such a request is part of a scam, as is anyone acting as a courier to collect money.

"If you receive a call like this, please hang up and call 101 or your bank from a different phone immediately to seek advice.

"It is important you do this from a different telephone line."

Officers have also shared the following advice:

• Police officers will never call people in this way and ask you to withdraw money or disclose personal or financial information. If someone does do this, please hang up – it will be a scam.

• Consider contacting your telephone provider to get a free call-blocking service if you are getting unsolicited calls.

• If you are a friend, relative or carer of someone you think might be vulnerable to this type of scam, please speak to them about this advice. You might be the only person who can stop them from being scammed.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, report it to the police by calling 101. If a crime is in progress, dial 999.

You can make yourself aware of this type of scam and how to protect yourself by visiting the Action Fraud website (https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/) or by calling them on 0300 123 2040.