QUICK THINKING staff from a bank in Kirkby Lonsdale have saved an elderly woman from another suspected scam.

The woman, aged in her late seventies, was phoned by someone claiming to be from a national crime department.

The person on the phone said her money was at risk and managed to persuade her to confirm some personal details.

However, when the woman went to the bank and explained what had happened staff noticed something was wrong and raised the alarm to the police.

Police in Cumbria are now making a fresh appeal for people to be on their guard against fraudsters.

Detective Constable John Robinson said: "These fraudsters can be convincing and sometimes intimidating.

"They can be extremely confusing, particularly to older people who might not be as comfortable with technology and services such as online banking.

"We ask that friends and family speak to any older or vulnerable relatives and neighbours to make them aware of these scams.

"If you can’t verify the identity of the caller, we recommend that you do not speak to them."

Police officers have worked with bank staff to give them the confidence to spot when a customer might be being coerced or tricked.

DC Robinson added: "We are doing everything we can, working with others, in the fight against fraudsters to protect the public, particularly the most vulnerable."

If you think that you have been the victim of a fraud and it is a non-emergency situation report to Cumbria Constabulary on 101 and to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040, or by visiting their website http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/