Police issue warning

Lanarkshire Police are warning members of the public to be on their guard against a telephone scam where victims are being contacted by fraudsters claiming to be from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

There have been a number of incidents reported recently where victims have been asked to pay non-existent tax debts using itunes gift cards. The scammers don’t need the actual cards to redeem the value, but get victims to read out the serial codes on the back over the phone. Contact is made via phone calls, text messages and automated voice messages.

Sergeant Susan Rae said: “HMRC will never ask for any money owed in the form of gift vouchers. They will write to you officially regarding any genuine issues. Our advice is to be aware of this scam and end any suspicious cold calls you receive, then report it to Police Scotland.”

Contact your local police office on the 101 number.