Police warn over new HMRC lawsuit telephone scam
Fraudsters pretending to be from HM Revenue & Customs are expanding their unscrupulous activities in a new telephone scam targeting Shropshire residents.
West Mercia Police say they have received a number of reports from residents saying that HM Revenue and Customs have called about a lawsuit.
The automated message reportedly says: "This is Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs. We have been trying to reach you to let you know we are filing a law suit against you."
The message is then said to provide a list of options, such as: "To speak to your case officer, press one".
On some calls the victim has then received a follow-up call the following day demanding payment over the phone.
A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: "HMRC, banks and the police would never ring people in this manner or ask for personal or bank details over the phone.
"If you receive a call of this type, we advise that you hang up immediately and report it on 101 using another phone. You can also report it to Action Fraud via their website or on 0300 123 2040.
"If you have elderly friends or relatives who may be vulnerable to this scam, please make them aware."
