Police warn the public to be vigilant after man was '˜conned' out of £20 in Dunstable

The woman approached him and claimed she had locked her keys in the car and asked if he could help her get home.

He said: “She said she was from Radlett and asked for a lift to the train station and to borrow some money, I thought it was a bit strange but I had no proof that she was lying. I gave her a lift and when we got there she asked to borrow £20, she gave me her number and arranged to bring it back the next day, she did not and when I tried calling her, I didn’t get through to anyone.”

When he reported the incident to Bedfordshire Police and Action Fraud he was told it was a civil matter, not a criminal offence.

He added: “Unfortunately there was nothing they could do, but I want to make people aware of what happened, what if she gets more out of someone next time. I also think this should be a criminal matter, not a civil one.”

Following the incident, police are reminding people to stay vigilant.

A spokesman for Bedfordshire Police said: “Never hand over personal details or money to unauthorised people.

“Scammers can seem realistic but they are after your details and money . It’s okay to say ‘no’ - never give anyone your pin or other personal information.”

Officers have issued the following advice:

· If you receive an unexpected call, stop - do you know who is calling? If you’re not sure don’t talk - it’s the best way to protect your information

· If you’re online shopping, the website should show a padlock icon in the address bar and the web address should start with ‘https://’

· Fraudsters can use official logos and email addresses to gain your trust, so be suspicious of unexpected emails

· If you are suspicious of an email, you’re not expecting it or it doesn’t seem quite right, don’t click on any links or open attachments

· The police or your bank will never unexpectedly call asking you to withdraw or move your money, or change your password by clicking on a link in an email

· Use different passwords for all your accounts, making sure they are at least 12 characters and use a mixture of upper case and lower case letters, and symbols

· Make sure your computer and other devices are secure using up to date anti-virus software

Report fraud and scammers to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.