Cumbria Police have issued a fresh warning of a phone scam.
Officers are aware of a scam in which people pose as members of HMRC.
The caller claims to be from HMRC and states that there is a tax payment outstanding.
They warn if the money is not transferred then they will contact the police who will then look to make an arrest.
It is believed the scammers are targeting elderly or vulnerable people.
Inspector Jon Sherlock, of Cumbria Constabulary’s community safety unit, said: “Our advice for such scams is to politely decline to hand over any money and to take the details of the caller and ring HMRC on 0870 280 2566 to check if it is an actual case or fraudulent.
“The HMRC website states they would never use these methods to tell you about a tax rebate, a penalty or even to get personal payment information.
"We would like to advise the public to be wary of such scams."
The warning comes during Scams Awareness Month, run nationally by Trading Standards and Citizens Advice.
Anyone who comes across such a scam should contact Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.org.uk or contact the Action Fraud Hotline on 0300 123 2040.
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