POLICE teams across Dorset have highlighted a new scam.

They say the public should ignore and report threatening text messages about not completing the 2021 Census.

The warning comes via the UK-wide fraud intelligence bureau Action Fraud.

A spokesman said: "We're warning the public to be alert to scam text messages relating to the Census. These scam texts threaten the recipient with a fine for not completing the Census, or filling it in incorrectly.

"The Office of National Statistics (ONS) have confirmed you will never be contacted by text in relation to the Census. You will never be issued with a fine by text, phone call, email or social media.

"Ignore and report to stay safe."

Action Fraud urge people to forward scam text messages to 7726 and scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk