Scam artists pretending to offer tax refunds have targeted residents in Wigan and Leigh.
Police are now urging residents to be vigilant when taking cold calls from people purporting to offer refunds and are being urged not give out bank details.
Four separate households in Wigan and Leigh received a phone call on Wednesday 2 February 2011, from people claiming to offer refunds for poll or council tax overpayments. On every occasion they asked for bank details, which none of the victims gave.
Police in the Wigan area are now urging residents who take similar calls not to give out their bank details over the phone and challenge anyone who claims to be asking for money.
Police sergeant Eileen Hughes, based at Wigan, said: "Scam artists who pretend to be offering refunds just to con innocent victims out of their money are cowards.
"These calls were clearly hoaxes and the victims should be praised for not giving their bank details over the phone. However, there may be vulnerable or elderly people who unfortunately could fall victim to this scam, and be tricked into giving away their bank details.
"If you do take a call from someone purporting to be offering money please challenge them. Legitimate companies will be prepared to answer any questions and if necessary let you speak to a supervisor so you can check their credentials.
"Please do not give your bank details to anyone unless you are completely satisfied they are legitimate and only then after you have carried out some thorough checks on the caller.
Anyone who has suspicions should call police on 0161 872 5050 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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