CROOKS have stolen thousands of pounds by tricking bank customers into revealing their PIN.

The thieves steal their victims’ purses, often from workplaces, then call them, claiming to represent their bank and telling them they have been a victim of theft.

They suggest someone is trying to use the person’s stolen card and ask for their personal identification number (PIN).

Once they have the PIN, they steal money from the victim’s bank account, either at a branch or a cash machine.

A care home manager from Bowburn, County Durham, had her purse stolen from her office in March and lost more than £2,000 after the crooks withdrew cash from a Santander bank and Halifax cash machine in Darlington.

The fraudsters have also struck in Northallerton, Harrogate and Leeds.

Police are warning people not to divulge their PIN under any circumstances.

Detective Constable Joyce Healy, of Durham Police, said: “The suspects are very convincing when they call but if they were genuine they would not ask for your PIN.

“We can’t stress how important it is not to give that number to anyone under any circumstances – not even your bank or the police.

“I would also urge members of the public to ensure their belongings are secure while they are at work, particularly in buildings which are accessible to the general public.”

To report a crime, call the police on 101.