Halton Borough Council is warning of an automated phone call scam which tells residents HMRC is filing a lawsuit against them for non-payment of tax, and to press one to speak to a caseworker to make a payment.

The call goes on to state you will arrested if you fail to pay. We can confirm this is a scam and you should end the call immediately.

Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Trading Standards, Cllr Dave Cargill, said: “This scam has been widely reported and often targets elderly and vulnerable people.”

If you or somebody you know has been caught out by a scam or fraud please contact one of our specialist officers, Linda or Sue on 0151 511 8785 or 0151 511 8775, who are already working with people in Halton who have lost thousands of pounds to scams.

If you need advice on anything else please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline  or 0808 223 1133