PEOPLE in Somerset have been warned after the police have revealed they have been receiving fraudulent text messages regarding parking fines.

This has happened before, back in September of this year, Somerset Council had to release a statement reminding the public that the council does not text residents with parking fines (PCN).

A spokesperson from the Somerset Council said: "If you receive one of these texts, it is not from Somerset Council and may be a scam.

"If you are unsure if the text is real, contact us to check if you have any outstanding parking fines.

"Do not click any links or input any personal information."

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How it works is that Somerset residents receive a text message, that seems real, asking for payment.

If the text mentions anything about a 'PCN' from the local council, then it is a fake.

A good way to check the number texting you is by doing a quick google search to see if the phone number has any trace.

Speaking about the amount of fraud in Somerset, a spokesperson from the Avon and Somerset Police said: "FRAUD ALERT!

"People in Avon and Somerset have reported receiving fraudulent text messages, telling them to pay a fictitious parking fine.

(Image: Avon and Somerset Police)

"This is an example of ‘phishing’ when cyber criminals use fake messages to lure people to click on links within a scam email or text message or give away sensitive information.

"In this case, recipients are encouraged to click on a link to pay, which takes them to a website that looks convincingly like an official government page. They are then asked for their email address, vehicle registration and card details to make a payment, usually £20.

"If you receive a text message like this, DON’T click on the link, as fraudsters can steal your personal and financial data to commit identity fraud and take your money.

"Even clicking the link and not entering any information could result in malware and computer viruses being downloaded onto your device.

"Report by forwarding the phishing text to 7726. This enables your provider to investigate the origin of the text and act, if found to be malicious.

"If you have been coerced into giving away money or information to dishonest people, report this to your bank immediately (call 159 to be automatically connected to their fraud service) and to the police via Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

"By reporting you could protect many more people from being affected.

"Thanks to everyone who has reported and brought this scam to our attention."