POLICE have issued a warning against a scam which saw one Northwich resident hand over £2,000 in iTunes vouchers.

Four reports have been made to police this week of hoax calls from people claiming to represent government organisations such as HMRC or the courts.

On each occasion, victims were told they were under investigation for an outstanding balance and must settle the balance or face arrest.

Victims were told to pay within two hours in order to avoid arrest, and that payment could only be made through iTunes vouchers, which could be purchased from supermarkets or electronics stores and transferred over the phone.

Ch Insp Simon Meegan, of Northwich local policing unit, said: “In each of these cases people have been told that they must purchase hundreds of pounds worth of vouchers or face the prospect of being arrested, which has caused anxiety and concern for all of the victims.

“Sadly, one person has fallen victim to the scam and handed over £2,000 of iTunes voucher codes.

"Following these reports, we are working closely with local supermarkets and electronics stores to help prevent vulnerable residents from purchasing large quantities of vouchers.

“I would also like to remind local residents that HMRC and the Courts would never call you and ask you to settle a balance over the phone using vouchers.

"I advise anyone who believes that they may have been a victim to call us on 101.”

Anyone who believes they have been contacted fraudulently or have been a victim of fraud should call Cheshire Police on 101 and Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.