POLICE have issued a warning after reports of an Apple gift card voucher scam in Ryedale.

North Yorkshire Police received a report from a resident in the Ryedale area regarding an email claiming to be from someone she knows well.

A force spokesperson said: “The resident was asked if she could help 'her friend' by purchasing an Apple gift card for his niece who has been diagnosed with breast cancer and he had totally forgotten it was her birthday today and he wasn't able to buy the gift card as he was on a short trip.

“He told the resident he had tried purchasing online but didn't have any luck, so could she help by going to a supermarket or store close to her.

“He said he was only looking to spend £200 and promised to pay it back as soon as he got back from his trip.

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“The friend' made excuses as to why he couldn't call her in person so was reaching out via email.

“The person who had purportedly sent the email had been hacked and the message had been sent to everyone in their personal address book.”

Now, police have urged others who receive this message not to respond.

Crimes can be reported to North Yorkshire Police on 101, or via the force’s website.