POLICE are alerting the public about a woman who posed as a police officer and attempted to scam an elderly man out of cash.

Officers said the man received a phone call on Thursday from a woman, claiming to be from Dorset Police, who said his bank cards had been used.

A spokesman from Dorset Police said: "He was asked by the caller to attend his bank, to take a taxi, and to withdraw monies. Fortunately, on this occasion, no monies were lost as the recipient hung up.

"Always make sure when you hang up to wait for five minutes before redialling to ensure the call is properly cleared.

"The police would never contact you by phone and ask for money or bank details."

If you have any concerns about callers contact Dorset Police.