COPS in Lanarkshire are warning locals to be on the look out for a new scam email. 

A number of people have reported receiving a message from the Home Office claiming they have an outstanding penalty charge for parking. 

They are then asked to click on a link and pay a fine. 

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Police say the town of Coatbridge has been particularly targeted, but have warned other areas to be alert. 

A statement from Lanarkshire officers read: "We've been asked by an officer to highlight a scam which seems to be very popular in Coatbridge (but we assume it's all over).

"A number of the public have complained about receiving an email from the 'Home Office' to say that they have an outstanding penalty charge for parking a vehicle on a road where a charging scheme applies.

"There are details of a fine and a link to click to pay.

"WE ADVISE

- Do not click on payment links.

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- Check the email address of the send - it will usually be odd!

- The Home Office will not contact you about a parking charge, they are a Government body who primarily deal with immigration, security and law and order in England and Wales." 

If you have any information, contact police on 101.