Warning after HMRC fraudsters target Hampshire

Two victims of the fraud carried out yesterday were from Fareham, Hampshire police said.

They were contacted on the phone and told they would be arrested if they did not pay an unpaid tax bill.

In some cases the fraudsters asked the victim to buy iTunes vouchers and pass on the card details, police said.

None of the 15 involved handed over any cash as they knew it was a scam.

Detective Inspector Lee Macarthur said: ‘Fortunately on these occasions the victims knew this was a scam and refused to hand over any money. They did exactly the right thing by reporting it to us immediately. Alternatively, these matters can be reported to Action Fraud.

‘However, too often people do fall victim of these types of scams and end up handing over thousands of pounds. These types of incidents are understandably very upsetting for the victims.

‘We want to warn residents about these calls and urge anyone who receives a suspicious call to refuse to hand over any money or bank details and report the matter to the police or Action Fraud immediately.

‘If you have elderly relatives, friends or neighbours please make them aware of this scam and remind them not to give any details or money to unexpected callers.’

Two of the victims were from the New Forest, two from Eastleigh, two from Fareham and nine from Winchester.