South Yorkshire Police issue warning about scam as fraudsters continue to target area

A warning has been issued by South Yorkshire Police about an ongoing scam where fraudsters con people into believing they owe a payment for unpaid tax.
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The force said a number of people in South Yorkshire have been called by scammers pretending to be from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, or other official-sounding bodies such as National Insurance, Inland Revenue and HM Land and Registry Services.

Some have been called by scammers claiming to be government solicitors.The scam follows a similar theme, with fraudsters telling victims they owe payment in relation to unpaid tax and there is a warrant out for their arrest, or they are entitled to a tax refund and must provide their bank details.

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PC Gavin Johnson, from South Yorkshire Police’s fraud co-ordination team, said: “Thankfully, many people these days will treat calls like this with suspicion - but for elderly and vulnerable people in particular it can be a very distressing experience. That is why it's important everyone spreads the word about scams like this, and makes sure their loved ones know how to spot the signs and keep themselves safe.

A warning has been issued about a scam where South Yorkshire residents are being targeted by fraudstersA warning has been issued about a scam where South Yorkshire residents are being targeted by fraudsters
A warning has been issued about a scam where South Yorkshire residents are being targeted by fraudsters

“It's also worth being aware that these heartless fraudsters may take advantage of people's struggles during the Coronavirus pandemic - perhaps claiming the victim is entitled to a payment to help with the battle against Covid-19. They ask for their bank details to deposit some funds, but their aim is in fact to steal the victim's money.”

If you think you have been a victim, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 1232040.