A WOMAN was told that she would be 'arrested by the police' if she didn't pay money over the phone in a fraudulent scam.

Dorset Police say a woman from Dorchester was contacted by a person who claimed to be working for the police.

The woman was told by the call handler that she was subject to an arrest warrant 'due to an issue with her National Insurance Number and she needed to pay now to avoid being arrested.'

She was also told to call 01202 222999 to continue the conversation. No money was transferred and the Dorchester woman reported this call to the police.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "The police will not ask for money or personal details such as your bank account over the phone.

"Fortunately the local resident didn't fall for this scam and didn't pay or pass on any personal bank details to the caller.

"Please be mindful for this or any other type of scam, if in doubt terminate the call and notify the police as soon as possible.

"You have worked hard for it don't let someone else take it from you!