POLICE have issued a warning after telephone scammers targeted residents in Cardigan, Newcastle Emlyn and Llandysul.

PC Awen Thomas, of Newcastle Emlyn Police Station, said: “Victims are reporting receiving a telephone call on their landline from someone pretending to be from a company.

“During the conversation the fraudster has tried to extract personal details and bank details from the caller, or threatened action such as cutting off electricity or internet if payment is not made immediately."

Examples of recent reports include:

• Claims the victim’s internet connection has been hacked and the service will be cut off unless a payment made.

• Calls claiming to be from Sky and selling free upgrades or the victims’ Sky contract is expiring, during which they obtain callers personal details and bank details.

• Calls claiming to be BT security internet services requesting personal information.

• Calls and voicemails from HMRC. Fraudsters threaten potential victims with warrants for their arrest or legal action.

“We urge anyone who receives unsolicited/cold calls from any company hang up immediately," said PC Thpmas.

"Do not enter into conversation with them, provide them with any personal details or send them any money. You should only phone the company back using a trusted phone number.”

If you have been the victim of fraud, attempted fraud, or cyber crime, or have received a potential scam message or computer virus but no money has been lost or you haven’t responded to it, report it to Action Fraud either online or by calling 0300 123 2040.

To report blackmail to Dyfed-Powys Police call 101. If you are at immediate threat of harm, always call 999.

For further advice and information on how to avoid being scammed visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.