A WARNING has been issued over fraudsters posing as Cheshire Police officers.

Scammers have been sending text messages to residents claiming to be from the force in recent days.

These texts state that a neighbour has reported a number of people visiting the victim’s address during the coronavirus lockdown.

The conmen claim that their message is a first warning, and if anyone else attends the property then the police will be called – with officers issuing a £1,000 fine.

Detective sergeant Chris Jacques, of Cheshire Police’s economic crime unit, said: “This is extremely concerning, and we are urging everyone to remain vigilant if they receive a text of this nature.

“These scams do not discriminate and could affect anyone.

“It is a desperately uncertain time, and fraudsters are playing on this to benefit in any way that they can.

“No police force would send messages such as this.

“If you do receive texts along the lines of this scam, please do not be alarmed.

“Do not respond to the texts and report it to us by calling 101 or call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.”

Cheshire police and crime commissioner David Keane added: “Being the recipient of scams such as this can be extremely alarming.

“These opportunist scammers will stop at nothing to target innocent, law-abiding victims by inciting fear.

“I would urge the residents of Cheshire to stay vigilant and to tell others about this scam so that no-one falls foul to these heartless criminals.”