FRAUD campaigners have warned Dorset residents of a "sharp rise" in fake banking text messages.

Conmen claiming to represent TSB are sending phishing emails and texts to members of the public after a system issue was reported at the business.

Action Fraud's director Pauline Smith said banks will never ask for a PIN, password or similar information by email or text.

"We have seen an increase in opportunistic fraudsters sending text messages claiming to be from TSB that ask people to reply with their personal or banking details," she said.

"This can have a devastating effect on people, who can lose out on large sums of money.

"Don’t assume anyone who’s sent you a text message is who they say they are. If a text message asks you to make a payment, log in to an online account or offers you a deal, be cautious and report it to Action Fraud."

A spokesperson from TSB said: "While our systems are safe and secure, unfortunately fraudsters are increasingly sophisticated and looking to take advantage of situations like these by approaching customers.

"Protecting our customers’ information is our number one priority."