POLICE are warning people to be on their guard against telephone scammers after a victim had their bank account cleared.

A Greater Manchester resident was contacted by an offender purporting to be calling from BT.

They were kept on the phone for two hours by the scammer while their bank account was remotely accessed and emptied.

Thankfully the victim’s bank was able to return their cash.

Following the incident, Greater Manchester Police have issued a warning about scammers on social media.

If you have been scammed or are concerned about a potential scam call on 101, especially if you have transferred money to a scammer in the last 24 hours or if the scammer is in your area.

Call 999 if you feel threatened or unsafe.

Alternatively call Action Fraud 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime.

To report a scam to Citizens Advice call 0300 330 3003 for online scams or 03454 04 05 06 for offline scams.

For postal scam contact the Royal Mail on 0800 011 3466.