A career fraudster who conned elderly people out of £50,000 earlier this year has been jailed.

Makis Koros, 54, of Westward Road, Chingford, only targeted people over the age of 90 as he posed as a female bank official and duped them into handing over their bank cards and PIN numbers.

His victims were from St Albans and Radlett and he made his calls between February and April.

When Koros received the sensitive information, he withdrew cash, bought goods, and made electronic bank transfers.

When an investigation was launched by Hertfordshire Constabulary’s serious fraud and cyber unit, they were able to identify that the suspect was operating from Chingford at an address which was already linked to courier fraud.

A raid was carried out at Koros’ home and officers seized a mobile phone which had been used to contact victims, a 40 page document with his victim’s details. Cash and two further phones were found.

Koros, a UK national with Greek descent, with more than 60 convictions to his name, was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation and money laundering.

He pleaded guilty on the first day of his trial at St Albans Crown Court on October 10 and was sentenced to four years and six months in prison.

Proceedings are underway to try and recoup compensation for the victims.

Detective Constable Julian Griffiths, who led the investigation, said: “Koros is a career fraudster with in excess of 60 convictions. His despicable behaviour has left both his elderly victims and their families absolutely devastated. I hope the fact he is now behind bars comes as some small comfort to them as they try to move on from what has happened.”

“Police and banks would never ask for your PIN number, or send a courier to collect bank cards. If you receive a call of a similar nature, please hang up and report it to police.”