GREATER Manchester Police (GMP) are warning people to be vigilant after thousands of victims have been caught out by a National Insurance number scam.

The force said people are receiving automated phone calls from fraudsters instructing them that their "national insurance number has been compromised".

The receiver is then told they need to "press 1" to be given a new number to be connected to the caller.

But once they get through to someone on the phone, people are pressured into giving their personal details to be given their "new" National Insurance number.

However, in reality, the caller is a criminal and will use the personal details provided to commit fraud.

Nationally, 34,000 victims have been conned by this fraud.

GMP is asking people who receive an unexpected call, text message or email to take a moment to think before parting with money or information that could help keep them safe.

And officers are reminding people that it is fine to challenge the caller and reject, refuse or ignore requests and only criminals will try to rush or panic someone.

To report an instance of fraud contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.