The callers then ask for several banknote serial numbers, claiming they are needed to verify whether the money is counterfeit. A fake insurance reference number is also supplied.

To complete the scam, a courier is sent to the victim’s home to collect the withdrawn cash.

“This is a scam, and no legitimate police officer will ever ask you to hand over money for any reason,” Grilli said.

Police advised anyone receiving a suspicious call to take steps to verify the caller’s identity.

People should ask for the officer’s full name, station and badge number, then hang up and contact police on 105 to confirm whether the officer is genuine.

Grilli said older residents were being particularly targeted, and police urged people to speak to their elderly or vulnerable family members and friends to make them aware of the latest scam.

She said police would never contact people requesting banking details, card numbers, Pins or passwords, and would never ask someone to withdraw money as part of an investigation.

While there were situations in which legitimate police officers might contact members of the public as part of their duties, any request involving money should be treated as a red flag.

Police encourage people to remember:

- Police will never ask for your bank card details, Pins or passwords over the phone.

- Trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

- Check in with a trusted friend or family member before acting.

- If unsure, ask for the officer’s details, hang up, call 105, and request that the officer contact you directly.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimised by this scam is encouraged to report the matter to police and contact their bank immediately.

Further information on scam awareness and prevention is available on the Netsafe website