The police in North Dorset have warned people to be on their guard about an ongoing ‘HMRC’ telephone scam, with more than 150 reports of the fraud having been reported so far in the area.

Scammers are calling people randomly using an automated message warning that they are under investigation by HMRC and need to call the number given or ‘face serious legal consequences’.

‘This is a scam!’ says a police spokesperson. ‘Please don’t call the number or give any personal information out. Just hang up. If you have received a call like this and you wish to report it, please contact Action Fraud online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.’

The spokesperson adds: ‘If the person receiving the call is vulnerable and they have suffered a loss or been otherwise specifically targeted, only then please report it to Dorset Police on 101. We are doing all we can to stop these people but we need your help. We have had over 150 calls reporting this scam. Please #BeFraudAlert and talk to your friends and loved ones. Tell your loved ones that its ok to hang up on fraudsters.’