Details have emerged of two Angus phone scam victims who have lost savings of around £300,000.
An 81-year-old from Carnoustie and a woman in her 40s from Kirriemuir were the target of the crime.
As police investigations continue into the offences, a fresh warning has been issued over the ruses used by scammers to get personal details over the phone.
The Carnoustie pensioner paid out a huge sum of money over an inheritance tax con after he received a call telling him he was due to inherit a large amount, but that he would first have to pay a six-figure sum to cover inheritance tax to release the funds.
In the other scam, a 42-year-old from Kirriemuir lost a low six-figure sum after she believed she was investing in a company selling shares.
Angus provost Helen Oswald said: “This really is a filthy kind of crime, to gain the trust of people, including the elderly and vulnerable, and then take sums of money which are larger than most people could even contemplate.
“To break their silence on having lost such large sums of money will have been a major thing for them to admit, so as well as taking away all of this money it is a theft of their independence, self-belief and dignity.”
Sergeant Debbie Donkin of Police Scotland said: “We would advise members of the public to be extremely cautious if telephoned by companies offering financial reward or investment, particularly if the call has been unsolicited and is offering large sums of money for a transaction fee or charge.
“Reputable banks and financial institutions will not ask you for your banking details or password by phone.”
Sgt Donkin added: “Be suspicious as to who is calling you, make every effort to ensure that the person at the end of the line is legitimate and represent who they claim to represent.
“Do not be afraid to take details and also there is nothing wrong with declining their requests and ending the call.
“You can check they are who they say they are through the contact information that you have.
“Trading standards can be contacted on 01241 435600 with the details and they can offer advice and assistance as to whether the company is genuine or, if you are concerned or suspicious, hang up and contact Police Scotland on 101.”
Earlier this week, Enable Scotland spoke of its shock at the scale of financial exploitation of those with mental and physical disabilities after Freedom of Information data revealed around one quarter of those who were victims of crime in the county had been preyed upon for their money.