POLICE have issued a warning to residents not to give out their bank details over the phone.
The advice has been given following reports a number of people in Essex have received calls from criminals claiming to be from the police.
After informing the resident their bank details have been used illegally, the caller will ask them to confirm their card details over the phone.
Essex Police have said they will never ask for personal bank details over the phone.
If anyone claims to be from the police, people are advised to ask for their collar number and contact Essex Police on 0300 333 4444.
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