Residents in Dorset are being targeted by fraudsters claiming to be from the Metropolitan Police fraud squad.

A Dorset Police spokesman said the fraudsters are "clever, manipulative and have done their homework."

The fraudsters reportedly collate details about their victims before calling them to trick them into believing their claim.

The spokesman said: "Don’t engage in conversation with anyone you suspect to be a fraudster. The more you engage with these people the more chances you are giving them to suck you in.

"Please stay aware and be fraud alert. Tell your friends, your family and your neighbours. Please help us spread the word of this scam."