DETECTIVES are urging residents across Cheshire to be vigilant following a spate of hoax calls from scammers claiming to be police officers acting on behalf of HMRC.

Over the last month officers have received 12 reports of people receiving calls from someone claiming to be from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs.

The first part of the call is automated and asks the victim to press 1 in order to be connected to HMRC. A recorded message then informs the victim that they have an unpaid tax bill and that there is a warrant out for their arrest unless they pay immediately.

The fraudsters then ask the victims to make a bank transfer to pay off their supposed outstanding tax bill.

Det. Sgt Chris Jacques of the Economic Crime Unit said: "In each of these cases the victims have been left understandably shaken due to the fact they have been told if they do not pay their tax bill immediately then they will be arrested.

"Some of the victims have been left without hundreds and, in some cases, thousands of pounds due to this scam.

"It is important to remember that police officers and HRMC will never call you and ask you to settle the balance of a tax bill over the phone. Telephone numbers can easily be spoofed and you should never trust the number you see on your telephone display.

"If you receive a suspicious call, do not give any information over the phone and end the call immediately."

Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane said: "The recent rise in HMRC fraud has not only left victims without thousands of pounds but has also had a significant emotional impact, especially during this difficult period of time.

"I would urge all residents to remain vigilant."

Anyone who believes that they may have fallen victim of this scam ring 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. They can also report the incident via