THE public has been warned over a potential HMRC phone scam after a resident was targeted in West Oxfordshire.

A resident in the district said they received an automated message warning they were under investigation by the Government's department responsible for collecting taxes.

The message said to call the number given immediately or 'face serious legal consequences'.

West Oxfordshire District Council has urged anyone receiving a similar message or call to hang up and call HMRC, which has been made aware of the scam, on 0300 200 3300.