Fife woman scammed out of cash
The 65-year-old was called by a man, claiming to represent HMRC, earlier this week.
A Fife woman has been scammed out of a four-figure sum.
A man called the 65-year-old’s home phone number earlier this week, claiming to represent HMRC, and asking she pay an outstanding tax bill.
The scammer also told her she could use iTunes vouchers to pay - but she paid the money before realising the caller was not genuine.
Now police are issuing a warning to be on guard and highlighting government agencies and banks would not ask for payment like that.
Sergeant Craig Fyall of Levenmouth police said: "The advice is simple, if you receive a telephone call or email requesting money, do not pay.
"Government agencies and banks don't operate like this and will not ask for payment in this manner.
"You need to check and be satisfied that any request for payment is genuine.
"If in doubt, check with your bank and whatever you do, do not pay.
"There are organised scammers who will prey on the elderly and the vulnerable so be alert of this risk and hang up the phone if you are in any doubt whatsoever before reporting the incident to police or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040."