Phone scammers are posing as police in a bid to get high value gift cards, Durham Police has warned.

Residents across County Durham and Darlington have been urged to be cautious as the scam circulates, saying the force would "never" contact people for money.

Durham Police say the fraudsters are telling people to go to the shop and buy gift cards and then send them a picture of the serial number.

A force spokesperson said: "We want to take this opportunity to remind people that genuine police officers, your bank, or other reputable organisations would never contact you requesting money.

"Only give out your personal or financial details to use a service that you have given your consent to, that you trust and that you are expecting to be contacted by.

"Never assume that a phone call is a

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