There have been a number of recent reports of attempted fraud in Penarth and across the Vale of Glamorgan.

One of these was a telephone call from someone claiming to be from Amazon Prime stating an incorrect refund of £3000 had been made.

The second, to a different person, claimed to be from HMRC stating £2000 in unpaid tax was due and if not paid the victim would be arrested

Thankfully none of the victims lost any money to the scammers but we are reminding people to be vigilant and not to disclose personal financial information over the phone.

Communities on Next Door from Penarth have been notifying neighbours about a variety of scam and fraud attempts over recent weeks.

Legitimate organisations such as your bank, HMRC or police will never call you asking you to transfer money. Neither will they ask you for your pin or full banking password.

Our advice is to treat all unsolicited calls with caution.

Do not feel pressurised into making a quick decision - a genuine organisation won't mind giving you time to stop and think.

We urge you to look out for your loved ones and make your elderly neighbours - who might not use social media - aware.

If you have received any suspicious calls you can report it on 101 or Action Fraud 0300 123 2040.

Remember our top tips:

• If something seems too good to be true, it probably is

• Banks, police and HMRC will never ask for personal details, bank details, or for you to withdraw money from your account

• Never tell anyone your PIN, and never enter it into a telephone

• Do not feel pressurised into making a quick decision. A genuine organisation won't mind giving you time to stop and think

• If in doubt, call someone you know personally for advice

• Never click on links included in emails from unknown senders

• Report any suspicions to Action Fraud, or ring 101

• Keep a look out for loved ones. If they receive a lot of post, if their phone is often ringing, if they are secretive about their finances, report your suspicions

• For more information go to https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/