Dyfed-Powys Police has issued a fresh warning after an increase in local residents being targeted by a scam in which a caller claims to be a police officer.

The man was initially said to be targeting residents in the Pembrokeshire area but officers are now investigating a number of reports in Carmarthenshire.

The caller is contacting local residents to discuss details of an incident in which their card has been used fraudulently. He is then asking that residents call a number he provides to obtain a crime reference number. On some occasions he has stated he is either PC or DC Lawrence from the London area.

Dyfed-Powys Police is asking the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls and has issued the follow advice:

Do:

• Make a note of the callers details, including name, rank, collar number and station.

• Note any contact details from caller display, or via 1471 after the call has ended.

• Block the number that called you.

• End the call. Say you will contact the police directly to confirm the caller’s identity and be put through internally.

• Ring a family member before you make your next phone call. This is to make sure the line has disconnected from the initial (suspected fraud) caller.

• If anyone calls at your address following this suspected fraud caller, call 999.

Don’t:

• Hand out any personal or financial details

• Engage in conversation. Hang up.

• Make any arrangements to hand over any cash or card

A force spokesperson said: “We would also ask that members of the public share this advice with any friends or family that may not have access to social media.

“Anyone who receives a similar call is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police either online: https://orlo.uk/k6TjC; emailing: 101@dyfed-powys.pnn.police.uk or calling: 101.

“Anyone who thinks they have fallen victim to a scammer should report it by calling 101, or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. For further advice and information on how to avoid being scammed visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.”