Atherstone woman conned out of £100,000

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An 89-year-old woman has been conned out of £100,000 by scammers posing as bank officials and police.

Warwickshire Police said the woman, from Atherstone, was told there was a problem with her bank, which the bogus officers were investigating.

She was then tricked into transferring cash to another account.

Officers said the woman had been deliberately targeted and are warning people to be on their guard against similar scams.

The woman had believed she was talking to officers from the Metropolitan Police and staff from her own bank.

Det Ch Insp Sean Paley said: "While people are generally aware of such scams, these criminals target vulnerable members of the community.

"I would urge people to talk to close friends and relatives who they think could be at risk."

Police have urged everyone to check callers are genuine and be suspicious of unsolicited telephone calls.

People should never give out personal details to callers unless absolutely certain of their legitimacy, officers said.