Southampton mail centre (Image: Google)
Police intercepted a cash parcel after an elderly Hampshire woman was targeted by scammers.
The Romsey woman, in her 90s, was reportedly contacted by a person falsely claiming to be from her bank, police said.
She was persuaded to withdraw a large sum of cash and send it via post, Hampshire police said.
However, PC Scott and PCSO Emily Odell from Romsey Neighbourhood Policing Team managed to intercept the parcel at Southampton's main post office distribution centre before the money reached the fraudsters.
The cash has since been returned to the victim and placed back into her bank account.
A spokesperson for Hampshire police said: "This is a fantastic example of local neighbourhood policing helping to protect a vulnerable member of our community from fraud."
They added: "Never feel pressured into sending cash or transferring money.
"Stop, take a moment and check who you are speaking to.
"Please share this advice with friends, family and particularly elderly or vulnerable relatives.
"A conversation about scams could prevent someone from becoming a victim."