Nearly two million pounds has been lost to courier fraud in Cheshire in the past year.

New data from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has revealed that that 1,797 reports of courier fraud were received in the last financial year across the UK, with an average loss per victim of just over £12,000.

In this time period, Cheshire Police reported the third highest total losses from courier fraud offences out of police forces across the UK.

In Cheshire, 17 incidents were reported, with collective losses amounting to £1,783,392.41.

Detective Sergeant Christopher Jacques said: "We recognise that, as a result of courier fraud, victims in Cheshire have lost a combined total of more than £1.7 million.

"These figures are among the highest in the country but it's important to take into account that the number of reported incidents is relatively low compared with other police forces, with 17 reports in the last financial year.

"But we are committed to tackling this type of offending, and in the past 12 months we have seen some promising results, with at least six arrests for courier fraud in Cheshire."

17 incidents were reported in Cheshire in the last financial year, with collective losses amounting to £1,783,392.41 (Credit: Canva)

Courier fraud is where a victim is contacted by fraudsters who pretend to be police officers or bank officials.

This can be over the phone or in person.

The victims are then told to withdraw or hand over cash or valuable items, to purchase EUROs or gift cards, or even provide bank cards or pin numbers.

These are then collected from their home address or at another meeting place by a courier.

With the publication of these new statistics, Cheshire Police are reminding residents to remain vigilant.

DS Jacques said: "As well as tracing those responsible for these crimes, we would urge everyone to spread awareness of these offences and remind people to be vigilant.

"Many people may think they would never be a victim of courier fraud, however this really can happen to anyone.

"We react very differently when under stress and these criminals are very sophisticated and use a whole host of tactics to persuade people to follow their instructions.

"Please remember that police officers and bank officials will never ask you to withdraw money, purchase goods, hand over valuable items or disclose private banking details, for any reason.

"Help us to raise awareness by sharing this with your friends and family, especially if they are vulnerable or elderly."

Courier fraud can be carried out over the phone or in person (Credit: Pixabay)

If you believe that you have been a victim of courier fraud, contact Cheshire Police on 101, using a different phone to the one used to communicate with the fraudsters.

You can also report information via cheshire.police.uk/tell-us or to Action Fraud via actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Call 999 immediately in an emergency or if you suspect a fraud is currently in progress.

Do not wait to report the fraud to police. The quicker police are told, the more likely officers can identify those responsible.