Finnish police have warned people to be aware of a new type of scam, in which criminals obtain bank card details by photographing cards during in-person visits.

Authorities also reminded people to never share banking, payment card or personal information with strangers, either online or in person.

The warning follows an investigation in the city of Seinäjoki, in the west of Finland, where two men are suspected of photographing an elderly man’s bank card and stealing up to 30,000 euros from his account.

According to police, the suspects visited the man's home on Saturday and offered to show him new ways to use his card. During the visit, one of the scammers allegedly photographed the card under the pretence of giving guidance.

The men then left, with the victim later discovering that his card no longer worked and large amounts of money had been withdrawn from his account.

The case is currently being investigated as aggravated fraud.

Police believe the suspects may have approached other people in the Seinäjoki area and are asking anyone with relevant information to contact them via phone on 0295 415 501 or by email vihjeet.pohjanmaa@poliisi.fi.