INTERNET fraudsters have targeted vulnerable residents in a bid to swindle huge sums of cash with an online con.

INTERNET fraudsters have targeted vulnerable residents in a bid to swindle huge sums of cash with an online con.

Police have issued a warning to residents after several people said they were contacted through the world-wide-web and told they’ve won thousands of pounds- only to be duped into paying out major amounts of money.

“These people appear to be targeting vulnerable people, especially the deaf community,” said a Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson.

“Victims pay amounts of money, ranging from hundreds to thousands of pounds, via Western Union to countries abroad.

“A country that’s been used regularly is Nigeria.

“People are advised not to reply to such communications and certainly to never send money on to an unsecured and unknown source.”