A teenager has been arrested after a Maple Cross woman in her 60s was targeted in phone scam.

The 16-year-old from London was arrested yesterday on suspicion of fraud by false representation after the victim was contacted by someone claiming to be from the police.

The caller said that they were investigating fraudulent activity in the victim’s bank account.

They asked her to withdraw a large amount of money and arranged a courier to collect the cash, claiming it was needed as part of the investigation.

The victim realised this was a scam and contacted the police who were then able to act on the information.

Detective Constable Adam Bridges, from Three Rivers Local Crime Unit, said: "We are continuing with our robust approach towards those who are involved with phone scams, particularly as they tend to target the vulnerable and elderly.

"We are continuing to make arrests but I would urge people to remain aware of this scam."

DC Bridges said that police and banks will never ask for people’s account details or PIN number over the phone.

He added that they will never ask people to withdraw money or hand over their bank cards or personal possessions to a courier or stranger.

DC Bridges added: "People should be suspicious about unexpected calls. If you’re concerned about whom you are talking to over the phone then please end the call and contact the police via the non-emergency number 101. Please remember to wait until you hear the dialing tone before calling or use a mobile phone as the other caller may not have hung up and you may be reconnected to them."

For more information on this type of scam, visit www.herts.police.uk/PhoneScams