Fraudsters claiming to be from HM Revenue and Customs are targeting island residents, police have warned.

Officers said: ’The fraudsters are still telephoning island residents and phishing for personal and/or financial details.

’They are very convincing and will use various scare tactics to get your attention.

’For example, they may claim that they will take you to court if you don’t settle an outstanding bill.’

They added: ’Please warn your family, friends and neighbours about this scam.’

John Peet, chief inspector of trading standards at the Office of Fair Trading, said: ’Just put the phone down on these fraudsters.

’They are trying to obtain personal and/or financial details from you to enable them to carry out further fraudulent activities.’

Information and advice on this particular scam can be found at https://www.gov.uk/topic/dealing-with-hmrc/phishing-scams.

For more information about how to avoid becoming a victim of scams see www.actionfraud.police.uk

Anyone who thinks that they have lost money through a scam should contact their nearest police station and/or Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) as soon as possible.

Alternatively, they can contact the OFT for advice on 686500 or email [email protected]