A WARNING has been issued about scammers claiming to be from HM Revenue and Customs who are conning victims with iTunes vouchers.

Action Fraud has urged people to be aware of a new trend that has recently hit the UK, where offenders contact victims, claiming to be from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), or from a PPI Claims company.

Using deception, they con them into paying bogus debts and taxes using iTunes gift cards.

A Durham Police spokesman said: “Victims are being contacted by telephone and advised that they have an outstanding tax bill.

“They are told that if this is not paid then legal action will be taken against them, they could be arrested and have their homes taken from them.

“The fraudster says that to avoid this HMRC will accept iTunes cards.

“They then advise the victim to purchase the cards in high denominations (£500 and £100) and provide them with the card numbers.”

Any suspicious phone calls should be reported to the police, on 101, or Action Fraud on 0300-123-2040.